According to a report by Aris Barkas of Euro Hoops, the NBA, FIBA, and EuroLeague will reignite negotiations about teaming up to revamp professional basketball in Europe over the next few days. While broad discussions surrounding an NBA Europe venture have circulated for years, there has been building momentum for a 2027 start. Barkas’ reporting suggests it really could be close to becoming reality. There seems to be a pathway for all three major basketball institutions to support the new league.
Since Barkas says many investors are hesitant to pour nine-figure investments into an upstart league, the NBA is more open to collaborating with the EuroLeague than at previous points. While the NBA once aimed to immediately take control of the league from current ownership groups, they now appear interested in collaborating with the league on a minor expansion from 20 to 24 teams. It’s unclear if the added teams would be specific NBA affiliates or if the NBA will simply provide smaller support to all 24 squads.
Barkas adds that the NBA’s collaboration with EuroLeague could also help ensure the new venture does not add further conflicts to FIBA’s international competition schedule. While the NBA largely functions independent of FIBA, since basketball powerhouses like the U.S. can often rely on non-NBA talent for qualifying tournaments during the season, the EuroLeague has had a much more contentious relationship with FIBA. Barkas speculates that the NBA’s added presence could help mend those fences.
