Consultations for NBA Europe will begin

It was an open secret for several weeks, but the NBA and FIBA announced on Monday that they are starting a new phase in the project NBA Europewith the beginning of consultations with clubs as well as groups of investors potentially interested in creating a franchise.

In addition to permanently allocated seats, this future league would offer clubs participating in FIBA-administered cups the possibility of qualifying each season. It is clear that it will be a semi-closed league with ups and downs for several places. This qualification process will take place either through the Basketball Champions League (BCL) or through a qualification tournament organized at the end of the season. The league calendar would also align with national and international competitions, allowing players to represent both their club and national team throughout the year.

A semi-closed league

Within this project, the NBA and FIBA ​​also plan to provide financial support and resources to strengthen the development of European basketball. This support would specifically apply to national leagues, training centers, as well as existing NBA and FIBA ​​programs dedicated to training players, coaches and referees at all levels.

“The continuation of this joint project between the NBA and FIBA ​​is great news for the entire European basketball community.” writes Andreas Zagklis, Secretary General of FIBA. “The proposed format respects the basic principles of the European sports model by offering every ambitious club a fair path to the elite. This project aims to strengthen the sustainability of the entire European basketball ecosystem – players, clubs, leagues and national federations – and create a positive dynamic for the benefit of fans across Europe.”

For his part, Adam Silver adds: “Our discussions with various stakeholders in Europe have confirmed the existence of a great opportunity to create a new league on the continent. Together with FIBA, we look forward to engaging in discussions with clubs and ownership groups that share our vision of the development and potential of basketball in Europe.”

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