NBA Europe League Could Tip Off in 2027 or 2028, Silver Says
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NEW YORK — NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Tuesday that a new Europe-based basketball league being developed with FIBA could begin play as early as 2027, with 2028 serving as a back-up target if more time is needed.
Speaking at a Front Office Sports conference, Silver called a 2027 debut “ambitious” but attainable, noting that existing arenas across the continent could host games until modern facilities are built. “I don’t think I’d want to go much longer than ’28,” he told attendees, adding that the “opportunity is now” to establish the league.
The NBA and the sport’s global governing body announced in March that they were pursuing a 16-team competition in Europe, ending years of speculation. Silver said that figure could still change as discussions continue.
Last month the NBA retained JPMorgan Chase and Raine Group to provide financial and strategic advice. Silver and deputy commissioner Mark Tatum have since met with political leaders, club executives, media companies, potential investors and other stakeholders across Europe.
Traditional basketball powers such as Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Istanbul and Barcelona are expected to be involved in early planning, alongside soccer brands including Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.
European talent already represents roughly one-sixth of NBA rosters, highlighted by recent MVP winners Nikola Jokic of Serbia and Giannis Antetokounmpo of Greece, as well as Luka Doncic of Slovenia and French rookie Victor Wembanyama.
Silver previously suggested that launching closer to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics might be advantageous, but reiterated Tuesday that league officials are aiming for a two-to-three-year window.
Source: ESPN
