BERLIN, Jan. 15, 2026 (Associated Press) — NBA commissioner Adam Silver reiterated Thursday that the league and FIBA are advancing plans for a new Europe-based competition, but he withheld firm details on launch dates or participating clubs.
Silver spoke before the Memphis Grizzlies faced the Orlando Magic in Berlin, the opener of this year’s NBA Europe Games. The same teams will meet Sunday in London.
Framework still taking shape
The working timeline continues to point to October 2027 for tip-off, and one concept under review features a 16-team field with 12 permanent members and four qualification spots. Silver said league officials have been meeting regularly with prospective clubs, media outlets, sponsors and venue operators across the continent.
“We continue to be enormously excited about it,” he told reporters. “We’re looking at ways to grow arena infrastructure not just here in Germany but throughout Europe.”
Possible host markets
Cities under consideration include London and Manchester in England; Paris and Lyon in France; Madrid and Barcelona in Spain; Rome and Milan in Italy; Munich and Berlin in Germany; Athens in Greece; and Istanbul in Turkey.
Financial expectations
Entry fees will be significant, Silver said, and investors should not expect quick returns. “Similar to any start-up venture, the participants would be the investors, and over time would hope to seek a return,” he noted, adding that new arenas will be needed in several locations.
Player feedback and tradition
Orlando’s Franz Wagner and Dallas star Luka Dončić are among players who have discussed the idea with the commissioner. Silver emphasized that the league must balance innovation with Europe’s long-standing basketball culture, calling FIBA’s involvement crucial.
Balancing two expansion tracks
While the European project moves ahead, the NBA is also evaluating expansion beyond its current 30 teams. Las Vegas and Seattle remain the leading contenders, and Silver said a decision is expected by the end of 2026. “The real heavy lift would be creating a new league in Europe,” he added.
The commissioner joked about the workload — “You can see the bags under my eyes” — but said the league is committed to moving “one step at a time” as it finalizes the extensive logistics.
Source: ESPN
