New European Basketball League with NBA-FIBA Seal: A Project in Progress
The NBA and FIBA are collaborating to launch a new basketball league in Europe. According to NBA commissioner Adam Silver, the start of this league could take place between 2027 and 2028, although there is still no definitive date. Silver, during a conference, called the start in 2027 “ambitious”, but did not rule out this possibility. He pointed out that existing arenas in Europe could be used to begin, while a more modern infrastructure is built.In March, the NBA and FIBA announced their plans for this new European league, ending years of speculation. Recently, the NBA hired JPMorgan Chase and Raine Group to advise on finance and strategy. Silver and Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum have had positive meetings with political leaders, teams, media, and potential investors in Europe. Work continues at the league office to make the project a reality. The initial plans suggest that the new league will have 16 teams, although this number could change. European clubs such as Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Istanbul, and Barcelona could be part of the NBA’s plans. Currently, approximately one in six NBA players is European. Silver highlighted that basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and the second most important in Europe, after soccer, so there is a great opportunity.I don’t think we want to wait much beyond 2028. The opportunity to do something like this is now.
Adam Silver
