New European Basketball League Could Start in 2027
NBA commissioner Adam Silver revealed that a new basketball league based in Europe, the result of collaboration between the NBA and FIBA, could see the light of day in 2027 or 2028. Although a definitive date has not yet been established, Silver was optimistic about the possibility. During a conference organized by Front Office Sports, Silver called the start in 2027 “ambitious, without a doubt”, considering the pending challenges. However, he did not rule out this option and reiterated that the deadline could be two to three years, suggesting the use of existing infrastructure in Europe at the beginning.Silver mentioned that starting the league near the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics could be more sensible. In March, the NBA and FIBA announced their plans for a new European league, ending years of speculation. The project has advanced rapidly, and last month the NBA hired JPMorgan Chase and Raine Group for financial and strategic advice. Silver highlighted the positive meetings with political leaders, teams, media, and investors in Europe, while working in the league office to finalize the project.I don’t think we want to go much beyond 2028. The opportunity to do something like this is now.
Adam Silver
The initial plans consider 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 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. Silver also commented on the growth of basketball worldwide.I’d say I’m excited about it.
Adam Silver
