The NBA has officially outlined plans to establish a European league, with bidding for franchises expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026 and a projected launch in 2027, according to Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum. The league could feature a preseason tournament against U.S.-based NBA teams in its inaugural year.
According to Tom Friend of Sports Business Journal, Tatum confirmed that potential franchise locations include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Greece, with top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and LDLC ASVEL being considered. He described the project as “almost like the Champions League of basketball,” highlighting its potential global appeal.
The initial structure may feature 10 to 12 permanent teams, with a bridge year allowing clubs from countries like Lithuania, Serbia, and Croatia to compete for top-tier placement in Year Two. Tatum emphasized the importance of establishing a salary cap to maintain competitive balance and long-term financial viability.
Franchise fees are expected to range between $500 million and $1 billion, with investors required to upgrade or build arenas to meet league standards. The NBA sees the European league as a way to keep young international talent closer to home while still offering professional opportunities.
Tatum also hinted at interleague play, suggesting a preseason cup where NBA teams like the Knicks, Lakers, and Bulls could face European clubs such as PSG, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. Long-term possibilities include an NBA Cup tournament featuring top European teams or even an NBA European division, contingent on infrastructure and travel advancements.
EuroLeague has been in discussions with the NBA and FIBA since May, focusing on maintaining competitive integrity, European governance, and respect for traditional basketball structures. October talks in Geneva affirmed October 2027 as a feasible launch window, though scheduling, financial, and operational frameworks are still under review.
NBA Europe President George Aivazoglou emphasized that the league would combine centralized operations with locally owned teams under FIBA oversight, modeled after the NBA-backed Basketball Africa League.
