Jordi Clua, MoraBanc Andorra Basketball Stalwart, Dies at 71 After Cancer Battle

Jordi Clua, a historic figure at MoraBanc Andorra basketball club and owner of El Cafè de la República in La Massana's Aldosa district, has died at the age of 71 following a two-year battle with cancer.

The club announced the news on social media Wednesday, describing him as someone who "did everything except be president"—a phrase Clua himself used to sum up his career. Over more than three decades, he filled nearly every role at the club, from player and assistant coach to delegate, director, and manager, without ever seeking the top job. "Thirty years building BC MoraBanc Andorra from within, in silence, in every possible role," the statement said. It praised his habit of returning during crises without seeking attention and concluded: "There are people who do not fully leave the place they helped build."

Clua joined the club as a player in 1977, paused briefly for work commitments, and returned in 1983. From the bench, he helped secure promotion from third to second national division, then stabilised the team in Primera B before the breakthrough ascent to Spain's ACB league in the 1991-92 season. He remained involved through later relegations to Tercera Catalana, supporting the recovery to professional levels. As first-team delegate until 2011—and occasionally manager—he forged close ties with players. He once outlined the ideal delegate's traits: listening carefully, holding one's tongue, and knowing when to stay silent.

In interviews, Clua named his favourite lineup from his era: base José Luis 'Jou' Llorente, forward Josep Maria Margall, high forward Quique Villalobos, and centres Dan Godfread and the late Piculín Ortiz—all of whom had stints at FC Barcelona, the club Clua supported fervently alongside his Catalanist convictions. A sports enthusiast across disciplines, he settled in Anyós in 1995, opened his café in 2012, and ran it successfully until 2024, drawing crowds for strong coffee, excellent sandwiches, and his measured conversations tailored to his audience.

The cancer followed shoulder surgery two years ago, with treatments abroad offering temporary hope. About a month ago, his condition became irreversible, and he spent his final days at Sant Vicenç d’Enclar hospital.

Tributes poured in from fans, ex-players, and the Andorran basketball community, with the club offering condolences to his family and inner circle.