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NBA Explores Launch of European League in Partnership with FIBA

The NBA aims to expand its global footprint by evaluating a European basketball league, raising questions about its impact on the EuroLeague and potential revenue opportunities.

FILE PHOTO; Basketball - NBA - Indiana Pacers v San Antonio Spurs - Accor Arena, Paris, France - January 23, 2025 General view during the match REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq/File Photo
An NBA logo is seen on a chair at an NBA exhibition in Beijing, China October 8, 2019. REUTERS/Jason Lee
Fenerbahce face Monaco in the EuroLeague in March. The Turkish team is bankrolled by its partner football team
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Overview

  • NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed ongoing discussions with FIBA to explore creating a professional basketball league in Europe.
  • The league's primary goal is to globalize basketball further and tap into lucrative European and Middle Eastern markets, with potential long-term profits estimated at three billion euros annually.
  • The initiative poses a competitive threat to the EuroLeague, which faces financial struggles, with all its clubs reportedly losing money.
  • Key challenges include securing broadcasting deals across diverse European markets and integrating with established sports infrastructures.
  • The NBA is considering partnerships with major European sports clubs like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain to build the league's foundation.