More than results – Why does the NBA want to start a European league?

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The NBA is synonymous with basketball in most parts of the world. It is the most watched, richest and most famous league in the game. And now he plans to launch a spin-off competition in Europe. The European influence on the NBA is increasing – 71 players were born in Europe in the league this season, and five of the last seven MVP (Most Valuable Player) awards went to European players. Berlin and London also hosted regular season games. But does that mean there is demand for a new competition? The EuroLeague is the established highest level of basketball in Europe and includes teams affiliated with some of the biggest soccer clubs in Europe, including Real Madrid and Barcelona. Could these two competitions co-exist, or would there not be room for both? NBA commissioner Adam Silver says initial plans for ‘NBA Europe’, starting in 2027, are for 10 to 12 franchises to remain in the league on an annual basis. Alex Ferrer Kristiansson, director of marketing and communications for the Basketball EuroLeague – the top club competition on the European continent – tells Lee James why there is no rivalry between his organization and the NBA, and strong, professional leagues on both sides of the Atlantic can only be good for the sport. Joe Vardon, senior basketball writer for the Athletics, explains why commercial considerations may be a significant factor in why the NBA wants to create NBA Europe. Every Monday through Friday, More Than the Score tells stories that go beyond the score from around the world of sports. From the Winter Olympics to the Super Bowl, the Australian Open to the Diamond League, and netball to Formula 1. We’ve got interviews with exceptional athletes such as Ivorian legend Yaya Toure, boxing royalty Cecilia Braekhus and cycling sprint king Harry Lavreysen, as well as experts working behind the scenes to VAR. coaches who keep athletes in top shape. In addition, we have the expertise of top BBC journalists, who share their insights from decades of covering sport at all levels. And if you have your own thoughts on the stories we cover, we’d love to hear from you. Email us on [email protected] or WhatsApp on 0044 800 032 0470. More information, along with our privacy notice, can be found on our website: www.bbcvorldservice.com/morethanthescore

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