Pau Gasol Tapped for Potential Leadership Post in Planned NBA Europe League
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Hall of Famer Pau Gasol is under consideration for a senior position in the NBA’s proposed European league, tentatively called NBA Europe, league sources said. Gasol addressed a closed-door gathering in London on Monday, where commissioner Adam Silver outlined plans to launch the competition as early as the 2027/28 season.
“This is a very unique opportunity,” Gasol told attendees. “It’s all about learning from each other… the ecosystem, grassroots, domestic leagues and the impact on the children.”
The London meeting drew representatives from several EuroLeague clubs, executives from soccer organizations that currently lack basketball teams, and a wide range of potential sponsors and investors.
Financing Strategy
Silver said the NBA is courting capital from wealthy investors in the Middle East. While sovereign wealth funds are limited to a 20 percent stake in existing NBA franchises, that restriction would not apply to the new venture. “We’re talking to families that currently invest in sports,” Silver explained, adding that traditional private-equity groups are also in the mix. “We are open to different forms of capital.”
English Market Targets
The commissioner confirmed discussions with Manchester City and Manchester United about possible involvement, though neither Premier League club plans to field a basketball team at this stage. Still, Silver said both London and Manchester are expected to secure franchises if NBA Europe moves forward.
According to Eurohoops reporter Aris Barkas, six EuroLeague teams were present at Monday’s private session, underscoring the project’s early traction within Europe’s top basketball circuit.
Source: HoopsRumors
