Four-time EuroLeague champion Ettore Messina has discussed the financial differences between the NBA and European basketball, explaining why the American league’s salary cap system cannot simply be introduced in Europe.
Speaking at the European Basketball Advisory Group Business Conversations, Messina discussed the different economic structures used by NBA franchises and European clubs.
“The NBA decided many years ago to create a common economic pie and then determine how that pie should be divided, including with the players,” Messina said. “We cannot simply talk about a salary cap in Europe.”
The Italian coach pointed to the NBA’s established revenue-sharing structure as a major difference between the two basketball markets.
European clubs operate under different financial conditions, making it difficult to introduce identical regulations without broader structural changes.
Messina’s comments come as the NBA continues developing its proposed European competition and discussing potential cooperation with EuroLeague.
The 67-year-old recently joined the Atlanta Hawks in a consulting position following his departure from coaching duties in Europe.
