The long-rumored “NBA Europe” is shifting from a distant concept to a strategic reality. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has officially opened the door to a potential merger or deep integration with the EuroLeague, marking a historic pivot in how the league views the global basketball pyramid.
The Expansion Catalyst
The move follows the NBA’s internal approval to expand to 32 franchises, with Las Vegas and Seattle securing the new spots. With North American expansion settled, Silver is turning his gaze across the Atlantic.
“The best thing for European basketball is for us to join the EuroLeague,” Silver stated, emphasizing a systematic approach that includes FIBA and national leagues. This diplomatic shift comes after the appointment of Chus Bueno—a former NBA VP—as EuroLeague CEO, signaling a new era of cooperation rather than competition.
The $1 Billion Franchises
The financial scale of this “NBA Europe” project is staggering. Early reports suggest:
- Valuation: Each of the 16 proposed franchises is valued at $1 billion.
- NBA Stake: The NBA plans to retain 50% equity in the new circuit.
- Investment Interest: Over 100 investors, including owners of PSG, AC Milan (RedBird), and Newcastle United, have already accessed the project’s financial data via Raine and JPMorgan.
A Hybrid Horizon
The proposed league aims for an October 2027 tip-off. The roadmap includes 12 “fixed license” cities—including Istanbul, Madrid, and London—complemented by a merit-based promotion system linked to the Basketball Champions League.