NBA and FIBA to Engage European Teams for New League

The National Basketball Association and the International Basketball Federation announced on Monday that they will begin engaging prospective European teams and ownership groups next month to advance plans for a new professional pan-European men's basketball league.

The joint initiative, unveiled in a statement, marks a significant step in the NBA's long-standing efforts to expand globally. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described the move as a response to promising discussions with European stakeholders. "Our conversations with various stakeholders in Europe have reinforced our belief that an enormous opportunity exists around the creation of a new league on the continent," Silver said. "Together with FIBA, we look forward to engaging prospective clubs and ownership groups that share our vision for the game's potential in Europe."

The proposed league would feature a mix of permanent spots for select teams and a merit-based qualification system open to all clubs in FIBA-affiliated domestic leagues across the continent. Qualification pathways would include performance in FIBA's Basketball Champions League or an end-of-season tournament, ensuring annual opportunities for ambitious...