NBA, EuroLeague talks hint at growing partnership

The NBA’s long-rumored ambitions for expanding into Europe may finally be gaining traction, as recent developments suggest warming relations between the NBA and EuroLeague.

In a new report by Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic, signs of a potential partnership between the two major basketball organizations have begun to emerge, marking a significant shift from their previously frosty relationship.

According to Vorkunov, “the relationship between the NBA and EuroLeague appears to have ‘thawed’ to some extent as of late,” which could open the door to greater cooperation or even integration.

This progress follows a recent meeting between the two leagues that may mark the beginning of deeper collaboration.

“It is becoming more obvious that we have to work together,” EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejunas told The Athletic.

“I believe it is the first meeting of many where we should find ways to grow basketball. FIBA’s wishes are clear and simple and easy to get to. So it is up to both leagues to find ways to grow European basketball. Our history and fan base and teams would be a strong backbone to build on.”

Motiejunas’ comments underscore a growing recognition within European basketball circles that closer alignment with the NBA could be key to strengthening the sport across the continent.

With FIBA, the international basketball federation, expressing openness to such cooperation, the onus now falls on both the NBA and EuroLeague to create a unified strategy that leverages their respective strengths.

This evolving dialogue could have wide-ranging implications, including the possibility of future NBA Europe teams, joint events, shared developmental initiatives, or expanded commercial opportunities.

Though still in the early stages, this renewed dialogue represents one of the most concrete signals yet that a formal NBA–EuroLeague partnership may no longer be a matter of if, but when.