NBA commissioner explores new European basketball league
The NBA commissioner is in talks for a new European basketball league, with discussions currently underway, reports BritPanorama.
Commissioner Adam Silver has spent this week travelling across Europe, visiting cities like Berlin and London as part of efforts to establish the new basketball competition on the continent.
The 63-year-old and his senior executives are working toward a soft launch of the venture in October 2027.
This proposed league would see the NBA partner with FIBA, basketball’s international governing body. Silver addressed journalists at a press conference in Berlin ahead of Thursday’s regular season match between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies, which the Magic won 118-111. He acknowledged the scale of the undertaking, joking that reporters could “see the bags under my eyes.”
Silver confirmed he has held discussions with Real Madrid and other Spanish clubs about his vision for the proposed league. The initial blueprint calls for 10 to 12 anchor franchises to retain their spots in the competition each season, with additional teams potentially earning entry through domestic or FIBA competitions.
The commissioner indicated the league would blend existing European clubs with newly created franchises, with member teams providing the initial funding. Silver revealed he had recently sought advice from Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić, who developed his skills at Real Madrid before moving to the NBA.
However, the EuroLeague, currently Europe’s premier basketball competition, has responded to the NBA’s plans with hostility. A letter was dispatched to Silver’s office last week warning of potential legal action should the American league attempt to recruit any of its 13 licensed clubs, according to a European basketball source. When asked about this threat, Silver was dismissive: “I send the legal letters to my lawyers, so I’ll let them handle that.”
Nine of the EuroLeague’s permanent member clubs have already committed to staying for another decade, with Barcelona expected to follow suit. However, Real Madrid, French club ASVEL, and Turkish side Fenerbahçe are believed most likely to defect, with exit clauses reportedly worth approximately €10 million.
The two teams will meet again on Sunday at The O2 Arena in London, marking the continuation of the NBA’s European promotional tour. Silver has packed his schedule with meetings during his time in both cities, consulting with potential media rights partners, investors, and current European club owners about the proposed venture. On Wednesday evening, he held extensive talks with Alba Berlin owner Axel Schweitzer and the club’s vice president and chief executive, Marco Baldi, at a reception.
The commissioner also revealed ambitions beyond the men’s game, stating he would like to establish a women’s league in Europe “if we can figure out the correct model.” As the NBA seeks to entrench itself further in the European market, the landscape of basketball on the continent is set for significant changes.
