New European Basketball League on the Horizon: A Joint NBA-FIBA Project
The NBA and FIBA, the governing body of basketball worldwide, are working on launching a new European league. NBA commissioner Adam Silver revealed that the competition could start between 2027 and 2028, although a definitive schedule has not yet been defined. Silver, during a conference organized by Front Office Sports, called the 2027 goal “ambitious”, but did not rule out the possibility. He highlighted that the deadline could be two to three years, and mentioned the use of existing infrastructure in Europe as an initial solution.In March, plans for this new European league were announced, ending years of speculation. The project has advanced rapidly, and recently the NBA incorporated 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 companies, potential investors, and other stakeholders in Europe. Work continues at the league office to finalize this project. The initial plans consider 16 teams, although this number could vary. Prominent European clubs such as Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Istanbul and Barcelona, along with important football brands like Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, could be part of the league. Silver commented that basketball is one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, and that in Europe it is the second most popular sport, only behind football. This presents a great opportunity for the development of basketball.I don’t think we want to go much beyond 2028. The opportunity is now to do something like this.
Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
