In relation to Elisa Aguilar (Madrid, 1976), the new president of the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB), colleagues who worked with her in the federation offices over six years highlight her sharp thinking, collaborative spirit, and analytical mind. These are traits that accompanied a storied career as a point guard spanning more than two decades. Her selection as the first woman to hold FEB’s top position in its century-long history on October 3 marked another milestone in Spanish sport.
He has lived a life in basketball since the day he joined the A team at fourteen and became federation president thirty-three years later. What emotions go through your mind?
I’m a long-distance person. I could be a good marathon runner, and I feel I have achieved all the goals I set for myself at the pace I was meant to achieve them. As an athlete, I realized my lifelong dream: to play professional basketball, to compete in 222 matches with the national team, and to stand on the podium in numerous international tournaments. Yet this is another dream realized: to carry the utmost responsibility in a place that has felt like home for nearly four decades. Honestly, I’m thrilled, I’m happy, and I believe we can accomplish great things.
What matters more to you, unanimous support—the recognition that comes with it—or the federation’s ability to break the glass ceiling for women?
I don’t dwell on the female aspect because they chose me for my talent. The outcome is that, for the first time in history, a woman has assumed this level of responsibility, and that demonstrates that the obstacles of the past have been overcome. The strongest message for girls who want to pursue management someday is clear: if you prepare, you can and will reach your goals.
“Basketball met society’s demands and took a step toward equality in this country.”
Do you understand that you are now a reference for women and a symbol of commitment to equality?
I don’t see myself as a sole reference. I feel I am part of a chain that started long ago and is gradually dissolving the boundaries around professional and personal growth. Still, I recognize that the sport and the federation are highly visible, and I know I’m in the public eye. If I am seen as a reference, I feel proud because it reinforces the message that progress has arrived. Basketball has helped the federation respond to society’s expectations. As I noted in my address, there has been a real move toward equality in the country, and basketball, along with the federation, leads in several respects.
As a woman, athlete, and leader, how did you experience the Rubiales case?
I want to keep directions clear. What happened at the World Cup in Australia showcased the players’ remarkable work, and becoming world champions is extraordinarily demanding. It is disheartening that this overshadowed the achievement. From a managerial standpoint, certain behaviors cannot occur in women’s sports or in sports in general. There is an ongoing case, and it should be left to the judicial process to decide. On values and standards, there is no ambiguity.
“I am just one member of the chain, but I’m proud if I’m seen as a reference because it matters to show that this can be achieved.”
Can basketball, the sport with the most female players in Spain, be considered ahead of other federations in equality?
I cannot speak for others, but I know what we are doing. We have procedures to prevent imbalance and will strengthen them. We are united in this effort. We can say, for example, that the treatment of men’s and women’s teams is the same at all levels—coaching, training, nutrition, travel, and accommodation. This is an internalized standard. You must believe it, and so do we.
The dispute two years ago, with complaints by Anna Cruz and Marta Xargay against former coach Lucas Mondelo, is mentioned. Do you see parallels?
From my perspective, the situation is different. The incident presented to me occurred not within the federation or the national team, but with a European team. We had no idea such behavior was happening with the national team. If it had occurred there, I assure you the federation would have acted quickly to address it.
“I make my choice not because I am a woman, but because I am seen as qualified.”
How will the federation change with your arrival compared to the Garbajosa era?
I have been with Jorge since 2016, and that period yielded results and a clear direction for the federation. He hands me the baton, yet we are different. I want to push forward my ideas with my own style. I’ve learned a lot from Jorge’s tenure, and I plan to add my own stamp.
What challenges lie ahead at this stage?
There is a target of reaching half a million licenses by prioritizing growth, which are essential for basketball. It includes finalizing the Endesa Women’s League collective agreement, and a cooperation accord with the ACB. Adapting to the changing world means delivering an enhanced product and experience so that the fan card or Club España strengthens a sense of belonging. National teams remain the federation’s jewel, and the Valencia Men’s Pre-Olympic Tournament is a key milestone we’re pursuing.
“What happened at the World Cup is unacceptable; certain behaviors have no place in sports.”
Is renewing coach Sergio Scariolo among the federation’s priorities?
Jason Schaap? Sergio knows how much he is trusted and that this will be his home for as long as he wants it. The decision belongs to Sergio, but the offer to stay is strong because the federation believes those are the best hands to guide the team. He is committed and happy to lead, and the hope is for a long, fruitful partnership.