NBA Europe: Basketball League Could Debut in 2027 or 2028

New Basketball League in Europe Could Start in 2027

NBA commissioner Adam Silver revealed that a new basketball league in Europe, developed in collaboration with FIBA, could begin operating in 2027 or 2028. Although an exact date has not yet been defined, Silver considers starting in 2027 to be “ambitious”. Silver, during a conference organized by Front Office Sports, mentioned that the possibility of starting in 2027 is not ruled out, despite the pending challenges. He reaffirmed that the timeframe could be two to three years, highlighting the possibility of initially using existing infrastructure in Europe.

I don’t think we want to go much beyond 2028. The opportunity to do something like this exists now.

Adam Silver

Previously, Silver suggested that the league’s launch could be more viable near the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. In March, the NBA and FIBA announced their plans to establish a new European league, ending previous speculation. The project has advanced rapidly, with the incorporation of JPMorgan Chase and Raine Group to advise on finance and strategy. Silver and Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum have held positive meetings with political leaders, teams, media, potential investors, and other stakeholders in Europe. At the same time, work is being done in the league office to finalize the project.

I’d say I’m excited about this.

Adam Silver

The initial plans contemplate a league with 16 teams, although this number could vary. European clubs such as Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Istanbul and Barcelona, along with football brands such as Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, could be part of the NBA’s plans. Currently, approximately one in six NBA players is European, including figures like Nikola Jokic from Serbia and Giannis Antetokounmpo from Greece, who have won five of the last seven MVP awards, as well as Luka Doncic from Slovenia and Victor Wembanyama from France.

Basketball is probably the fastest growing sport in the world right now, and it’s a number 2 sport in Europe, after football, so I think there’s a real opportunity.

Adam Silver