SCABB Clarifies Name Usage on LNB Calendar

Following recent discussions between SCABB Saint-Étienne Métropole and the French National Basketball League (LNB) concerning the club's name on official league materials, both organizations have issued a joint clarification.

SCABB had requested that its official designation, "SCABB Saint-Étienne Métropole," which is used across all its communication platforms, also be adopted by the LNB on its calendars and other official documents.

However, upon the release of these materials, the LNB's services used the shortened name "Saint-Étienne" without prior club validation. This led to communication exchanges between the respective departments and ultimately, between the leadership of both entities.

Both SCABB and the LNB have emphasized the constructive, calm, and professional nature of these discussions.

The LNB expressed its delight in having SCABB as a professional club, commending the team's remarkable development efforts and solid project. The league believes SCABB will be a significant contributor to the growth of basketball both locally and nationally.

While the LNB understands SCABB's desire for its full identity to be represented officially, it cannot currently grant this request due to existing regulations. Current rules prohibit the use of acronyms, brands, or territorial denominations in the official names featured on competition materials. This applies to all clubs to ensure fairness, as similar requests have been reviewed previously.

Recognizing the evolving landscape of professional sports, the LNB has committed to initiating a review of these regulations. The matter will be added to the agenda of an upcoming Steering Committee meeting to explore potential amendments that could better accommodate specific club situations.

SCABB, in turn, reiterated that there is no institutional link with the City of Saint-Étienne. This is why the club requested that the sole mention of "Saint-Étienne" no longer be used on LNB materials. Pending any regulatory changes, the club and the LNB have agreed to use the name "Saint-Chamond Andrézieux-Bouthéon," which reflects SCABB's historical roots.

SCABB reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the LNB on the evolution of these regulations. Similar to other professional leagues where club names have adapted to better reflect their identities, SCABB aims to actively participate in this process through dialogue and in service of French basketball's development.

SCABB and the LNB are pleased to continue their collaboration in a climate of trust, mutual respect, and a shared ambition to collectively enhance the profile and growth of professional basketball in France.