The NBA is advancing plans to establish a new professional men’s basketball league across Europe, collaborating with FIBA to expand global competition. The initiative aims to elevate European basketball through structured development and increased international visibility.
- NBA exploring a new professional men’s league in Europe with FIBA
- 24-team league planned across 12 European countries
- $50 million minimum investment required per ownership group
- Projected annual revenue of $300 million within five years
- Broadcast partnerships targeted with Sky Sports and DAZN
- Youth development academy network to span 15 cities
The National Basketball Association is actively evaluating the creation of a standalone, professional men’s basketball league in Europe, leveraging its strategic partnership with FIBA. This proposed league would operate independently from existing national leagues while integrating top-tier talent and infrastructure across multiple European markets. Initial discussions have centered on establishing a unified competition model that emphasizes player development, team sustainability, and fan engagement across borders. Key design elements under consideration include a regular-season format spanning 12 months, featuring 24 teams from 12 European countries. Each team would be backed by an ownership group with a minimum investment threshold of $50 million, ensuring financial stability and long-term commitment. The league would also implement a centralized player draft system, aligning with NBA standards, and allow for up to six foreign-born players per roster, promoting international competitiveness. Revenue projections estimate annual operational income exceeding $300 million within five years, driven by broadcast rights, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Broadcast deals are being negotiated with major European networks, including Sky Sports and DAZN, targeting a combined viewership base of over 120 million households. Additionally, the league plans to launch a youth development academy network across 15 cities to cultivate future talent. Market participants such as European sports conglomerates, private equity firms, and established club owners are being approached for ownership opportunities. The move could reshape the competitive landscape of European basketball, potentially increasing player mobility and raising the profile of domestic leagues through collaboration rather than competition.