The NBA and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) are in discussions with European soccer clubs about launching a new basketball league in Europe. The potential partnership was announced at a press conference in New York following an NBA Board of Governors meeting.
A joint statement highlighted the goal of expanding the sport’s reach and accelerating its growth across the continent. Discussions with investors, teams, arena developers, and commercial partners have been ongoing for over a year.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis emphasized European basketball’s untapped potential, citing its strong history of international competitions and elite talent development. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver echoed this sentiment, expressing interest in collaborating with FIBA to create a new league.
The NBA has reportedly engaged with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester City regarding support for new teams. Qatar Sports Investment, PSG’s owner, confirmed interest in a potential basketball franchise in Paris.
Bloomberg reported that the league could launch with eight franchises, each requiring an initial $500 million investment. The competition would rival the EuroLeague, which currently features clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Fenerbahçe.
This move aligns with the NBA’s global expansion efforts, which have included regular-season games in London, Paris, and Mexico City, as well as the successful launch of the Basketball Africa League in 2019. Basketball remains hugely popular in Europe, particularly in Spain, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Greece, Serbia, and Lithuania.
The EuroLeague recently reported an 18% rise in average attendance, surpassing three million spectators last season. European players continue to leave their mark on the NBA, with five of the last six MVP awards won by Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid.
Frequently Asked Question
Why are the NBA and FIBA planning a new basketball league in Europe?
The NBA and FIBA aim to expand the sport’s reach, capitalize on basketball’s growing popularity in Europe, and create a new, high-level competition that could rival the EuroLeague.
Which soccer clubs are involved in the discussions?
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester City have been approached as potential investors in new teams. Qatar Sports Investment, PSG’s owner, has confirmed its interest in a basketball franchise in Paris.
How would this new league compare to the EuroLeague?
The proposed league would compete with the EuroLeague, Europe’s premier basketball competition. Reports suggest it could launch with eight franchises, each requiring a $500 million initial investment.
Has the NBA successfully launched leagues outside the U.S. before?
Yes, the NBA co-founded the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in 2019, which has been successful in growing the game on the African continent. The NBA has also hosted regular-season games in Europe, Mexico, and the UAE.
When will the new league be officially announced?
There is no confirmed launch date yet. The NBA and FIBA are still in discussions with investors, teams, and arena developers, and the league could decide not to move forward with the competition.
Conclusion
The NBA and FIBA’s discussions with European soccer clubs signal a major push to expand basketball’s presence on the continent. With powerhouse clubs like PSG and Manchester City showing interest, the proposed league could reshape European basketball by introducing a new, high-profile competition. While details remain uncertain, the NBA’s track record of global expansion and successful ventures like the Basketball Africa League suggest this initiative has strong potential. If launched, it could provide new opportunities for teams, players, and fans while intensifying competition with the EuroLeague.