NBA and FIBA Advance Plans to Launch New Professional Men Basketball League in Europe

In a groundbreaking development for international basketball, the NBA and FIBA have confirmed they are moving forward with the exploration of a new professional men’s basketball league in Europe. The announcement, made during a joint press conference in New York, marks a potential shift in the basketball landscape on the continent—one that could rival the EuroLeague and reshape how elite European basketball is organized and commercialized.

A 16-Team League: 12 Permanent Clubs, 4 Rotating Spots

The proposed league is designed around a 16-team model. According to reports, 12 teams will be permanent franchises, while four will qualify annually based on domestic performance—a hybrid model that brings together elements of the NBA’s franchise system and Europe’s tradition of merit-based qualification.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis stated, “Our vision is to create a competitive, sustainable, and commercially successful league that stays true to the DNA of European basketball while opening new horizons.”

The league will adhere to FIBA’s 40-minute game structure and may also include promotion-relegation mechanisms, a rare feature in top-tier global basketball.

NBA-FIBA Collaboration: A Game-Changer?

This marks a historic collaboration between the NBA, the world’s most commercially powerful basketball league, and FIBA, basketball’s global governing body. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized that this venture is not meant to disrupt existing domestic leagues or FIBA competitions, but rather to “complement and elevate the game in Europe.”

“Europe has long been a pipeline of incredible talent and passion for basketball. It’s time to unlock that potential in a way that’s sustainable for clubs, players, and fans,” Silver noted.

Key Teams and Cities in the Mix

Discussions are reportedly underway with some of Europe’s top basketball institutions. EuroLeague powerhouses such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, ASVEL Basket, and Fenerbahçe are among those approached.

At the same time, new franchises may be introduced in underrepresented but strategically important cities like Paris, London, and Berlin, expanding basketball’s footprint across the continent.

What’s even more intriguing is the involvement of European football giants. Talks have reportedly taken place with clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, who could back or co-brand teams in this new basketball league—mirroring the multi-sport model seen with FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Why Now? Basketball’s Untapped Potential in Europe

Despite Europe producing elite talent like Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic, the commercial side of European basketball has lagged behind. With growing fan interest, improved infrastructure, and more media rights opportunities, the timing is ripe for a high-profile league backed by global entities.

This league could bridge the gap between the EuroLeague’s tradition and the NBA’s marketing power, offering a product more attractive to broadcasters, sponsors, and younger audiences.

No Conflict With Domestic Leagues or EuroBasket

Both FIBA and the NBA Streams have reiterated that this league would be structured to avoid clashes with national leagues and international tournaments like the FIBA EuroBasket or FIBA World Cup qualifiers.

The aim is to coexist, not replace, and to enhance the overall basketball ecosystem in Europe—a message aimed at easing concerns among domestic leagues and federations.

What’s Next?

While still in the exploratory phase, with no official launch date, the wheels are clearly in motion. Market research, team discussions, and stakeholder negotiations are underway. Insiders believe a formal proposal could be presented by late 2025, with the inaugural season potentially launching as early as 2027.