Doncic, Nelson buy Vanoli Cremona, plan move to Rome for NBA

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic and former Dallas Mavericks executive Donnie Nelson have purchased the Italian professional basketball club Vanoli Cremona with the intention of relocating it to Rome. The move is part of a bid to establish a franchise in the Italian capital for the proposed NBA Europe league.

The ownership group, which also includes former Italian league player Rimantas Kaukenas and veteran coach Valerio Bianchini, plans to move the club ahead of the 2026-27 season. Doncic confirmed the venture this week, stating he has long dreamed of owning a team in Europe. "I have dreamed about owning a team in Europe for a long time, to finally have this happen is amazing," Doncic said. "Vanoli has a great history, and we are ready to take it to the next level in Rome."

The initiative aligns with the NBA's broader strategy to expand internationally. The league, in partnership with FIBA, is developing NBA Europe with plans for a launch as soon as the fall of 2027. Commissioner Adam Silver has set a goal of at least 12 teams for the inaugural season, with the potential to expand to 16. Major European cities including London, Paris, Madrid, and Berlin are reportedly being...