NBA advances plans for European league, taps Alba Berlin as potential cornerstone
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The NBA’s blueprint for a Europe-based league continues to take shape, with league officials targeting an October 2027 launch and positioning Germany’s Alba Berlin as a leading candidate to anchor the competition.
Commissioner Adam Silver, speaking during the Orlando Magic–Memphis Grizzlies exhibitions in Berlin and London, praised Alba Berlin’s youth development and fan support. “They are the model of the type of club that we would like to see in a potential European league,” Silver said, noting the club’s role in developing Franz and Moritz Wagner.
Alba Berlin, which opted out of EuroLeague play this season, could face fewer obstacles in joining the NBA project. Club owner Axel Schweitzer said EuroLeague’s business model is “not financially sustainable” for many teams and called the NBA venture an opportunity “to achieve much more than what’s been in reach.”
Possible partners in France, Spain and Italy
• Silver confirmed talks with Paris Saint-Germain, calling the soccer powerhouse a “club we’re talking to.” Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum highlighted PSG’s marketing reach and its association with the Jordan Brand as attractive assets.
• In Spain, FC Barcelona is expected to approve a 10-year extension with EuroLeague this week. Reporter Alex Molina noted that the commitment would not rule out a future move to the NBA platform if the new league proves stable.
• League executives will meet Monday with Olimpia Milano and AC Milan to outline financial and operational details of potential participation, according to Kevin Martorano. Inter Milan declined the invitation, signaling limited interest for now.
The NBA has not announced a final roster of inaugural franchises, but Berlin and London are being eyed as anchor markets as planning continues toward the targeted 2027 debut.
Source: Hoops Rumors
