NBA and FIBA plans to create a new (and powerful) competition in Europe
SportsIn
September 17, 2024

European basketball could be on the verge of a significant change. The NBA, the world’s leading basketball league, is exploring the possibility of expanding its influence on the European continent by considering the creation of a league or tournament in collaboration with local teams. Although the project is still in the analysis phase, this proposal has generated anticipation and debate in the world of international basketball.

In statements made last week, NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirmed that the league is evaluating its options in Europe but emphasized that there is no concrete plan yet. “There is no specific plan right now about Europe, other than we’re agreeing to look intensively at the opportunity,” Silver noted.

IN SEARCH OF FINANCIAL STABILITY

Andreas Zagklis, of FIBA.

Andreas Zagklis, of FIBA.

The current landscape of basketball in Europe appears to be a key factor that the NBA is monitoring. Andreas Zagklis, secretary general of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), met with the NBA’s board of governors to discuss the issue. Although details have not been defined, the NBA’s intention to become more involved in European basketball could arise in a context of financial and organizational instability in some European competitions, especially in the EuroLeague, where some teams have expressed dissatisfaction with the economic situation.

“Right now, no one was expecting the NBA to step in, but at this point, there’s a need to structure the markets and competitions in a more orderly way,” commented a EuroLeague team president to ‘The Athletic.’ “There is one brand that has proven it can do that.” These statements reflect the confidence that many European executives have in the NBA’s ability to bring stability and growth to basketball on the continent.

COLLABORATION WITH FIBA AND LOCAL ORGANIZATION

One of the most delicate aspects the NBA must consider is how to enter the European market without negatively affecting the existing sports infrastructure. Silver emphasized that the league is working closely with FIBA to better understand the European context and ensure that any move respects current competitions and the teams involved. “What we need to figure out is how to come into that region in a way that is not hostile to the existing infrastructure,” Silver said.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de SportsIn (@sportsin.biz)

The goal, according to the commissioner, is not only a sporting opportunity but also a commercial one. “Where we are in terms of the level of interest in basketball is not commensurate with the level of commercial activities,” Silver pointed out, adding that one of the key challenges will be to demonstrate that the NBA can create a sustainable model in Europe.

GULF INVESTORS

One of the options the NBA is considering is the creation of a league that includes existing European teams, which could attract investment from Gulf states, according to sources close to the league. The NBA’s interest in the European market is being carried out with the help of financial firm The Raine Group, which is assisting the league in exploring different opportunities that would be beneficial for all parties involved.

From FIBA, the issue is being studied cautiously as their main priority is ensuring that basketball emerges stronger from any decision that is made. Their cooperation with the NBA is satisfactory in this initial phase of the study, making clear their stance to safeguard the interests of all European clubs, their competitions, and, of course, their fans. Andreas Zagklis is personally evaluating each idea and proposal related to this matter, which could elevate European basketball to a new dimension forever.

Latest News