MoraBanc Andorra's Jordi Clua Dies at 71 After Cancer Battle

Jordi Clua, a longstanding figure at MoraBanc Andorra basketball club, has died at the age of 71 after a two-year battle with cancer.

Clua joined the club in 1977 as a player and went on to fill nearly every role except president, according to a club statement. He served as second coach, delegate, director and manager, with his time as first-team delegate spanning nearly three decades until 2011. The club described him as having spent 30 years building the organisation from within, often in silence and across all possible positions.

He experienced key milestones, including the promotion from Tercera to Segona Nacional after returning in 1983 following a brief professional absence, consolidation in Primera B, and the first ascent to Spain's top ACB league in April 1992. Clua remained committed during tough periods, such as the team's drop to Tercera Catalana, helping it regain professional status.

In recent years, Clua ran El Cafè de la República in Aldosa, Massana, which he opened in 2012 after moving to Anyós in 1995. The venue drew crowds for its coffee, sandwiches and his engaging discussions. A passionate Catalanist and FC Barcelona supporter, he valued discretion in his delegate role, once outlining ideal lineups from his era including José Luis 'Jou' Llorente, Josep Maria Margall, Quique Villalobos, Dan Godfread and Piculín Ortiz.

Cancer was diagnosed after shoulder surgery, requiring treatments abroad. His condition worsened about a month ago, leading to admission at Sant Vicenç d’Enclar where he spent his final days. The club noted: "There are people who never fully leave the place they helped build."