As the NBA eyes an expansion beyond North America, the prospect of a European footprint is changing from speculation into strategic projection. While no formal expansion into Europe has occurred yet, the league — with endorsement of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) — is actively pursuing what would amount to a new European league or competition under NBA influence.
Commissioner Adam Silver has publicly flagged Europe as a priority region, citing untapped commercial opportunities in sport on the continent. At the heart of the NBA’s reasoning lies the accelerating globalization of basketball talent and audiences; more European players have become stars in the NBA and UEFA-style club and league models offer a comparative blueprint for growth.
Though the possibility is still being explored, the proposed structure is reported to involve a 16-team framework, with some franchises guaranteed permanent membership and others qualifying annually. While details remain fluid, the NBA appears to favour a hybrid model rather than a closed club system; this approach would align with FIBA’s broader governance principles. Locations under serious consideration include major European cities such as London, Paris, Berlin and Rome, markets where basketball has established roots and commercial potential.
Several converging factors have made the current moment opportune for a European initiative. First, the NBA has solidified its global footprint through regular-season games overseas, youth programs and broadcast deals. Second, FIBA and the NBA have publicly aligned on the exploration of a joint European pathway. The timing is designed to dovetail with the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, offering a natural launch platform.
Despite the ambition, the European project faces significant hurdles. One prominent concern is the impact on existing European competitions, such as the Euro League, which constitute entrenched structures with vested clubs and broadcasters. Some executives in Europe have voiced concern about potential market disruption and loss of autonomy.
Moreover, aligning regulatory, cultural and operational norms across continents poses logistical complexity. European fans and leagues are accustomed to promotion/relegation models, national competitions and short seasons; features that contrast with the closed-franchise, long-season model of the NBA. The proposed hybrid format attempts to bridge this gap but execution remains uncertain.
If the initiative proceeds, we could see inaugural European franchises operating as early as 2027 or 2028, a timeframe acknowledged by Commissioner Silver. Initial steps are likely to include exhibition and preparatory games, strategic investor recruiting and selection of anchor cities. Over time, integration between these European teams and the NBA’s global ecosystem may evolve, potentially leading to cross-continent tournaments or even regular season inter-league games.
For basketball editors and analysts, the stakes are clear. A successful European league tied to the NBA’s brand could redefine international basketball economics, talent and fan engagement. Conversely, missteps could provoke resistance from traditional European leagues, diluting the sport’s competitive architecture. Either way, the next few years are poised to shape not just the NBA’s footprint, but the very structure of professional basketball internationally.