Jordi Bertomeu, the former CEO of EuroLeague, issued a strong warning about the NBA’s growing presence in Europe, claiming the league’s true objective is to take control of European basketball.
According to Alessandro Luigi Maggi, Bertomeu compared the NBA’s European ambitions to its earlier move in Africa through the Basketball Africa League.
“In Africa, the NBA landed a few years ago but nobody talks about it,” Bertomeu said. “The movement has not grown, but the Americans meanwhile control all the talent on the continent. And in Europe it would be the same. They want to control European basketball.”
Bertomeu’s comments follow the NBA and FIBA’s recent joint announcement of a new professional league based in Europe.
The proposed competition would blend fixed franchises with merit-based qualifiers, aiming to operate alongside the existing European basketball system.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described the project as a logical step in the league’s global growth strategy, while FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis cited Europe’s deep basketball history as a key factor.
Current EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejunas responded to the announcement with cautious optimism but expressed disappointment over the lack of early dialogue with his organization.
Motiejunas acknowledged the NBA’s influence but emphasized the importance of collaboration with existing stakeholders.
He said the EuroLeague remains strong, with loyal fans and competitive clubs, but admitted being “offended” that the league was not included in initial discussions.
Motiejunas pushed back on speculation that clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Fenerbahce might leave EuroLeague for the new NBA-backed league, saying no teams had expressed such intentions.
However, he conceded that the NBA’s involvement naturally draws attention, even from within the EuroLeague.
Motiejunas cast doubt on the viability of the proposed league without participation from Europe’s top clubs and questioned whether a semi-closed format could succeed financially.
He said any meaningful project in Europe must involve the continent’s leading organizations, citing EuroLeague’s experience and infrastructure.
Reports indicate that Paris Saint-Germain could be exploring entry into the new league, either by acquiring Paris Basketball or launching a new franchise backed by investors.
The NBA’s concept reportedly includes a 16-team format with representatives from major cities such as London, Milan, and Berlin, though no formal agreements have been confirmed.
