- Oct 16, 2026
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SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
The NBA will launch its own European basketball league in October 2027 after failing to reach a deal with existing competition owners. Deputy commissioner Mark Tatum announced the plan Tuesday, confirming the project will move forward independently.
The new venture represents the largest investment the NBA has made in European basketball. It will operate on a merit-based model in which some clubs hold permanent status while others qualify through performance in other leagues. Funding will target academies, grassroots programs, operations, marketing and arena infrastructure. The league projects multibillions in distributions to participating clubs during its first ten years.
EuroLeague owners rejected an NBA merger proposal earlier this month. Tatum said, "We're prepared to proceed regardless." The NBA is partnering with FIBA, the sport's global governing body, on the initiative. The two organizations formally announced their collaboration in March 2025.
The NBA highlighted several European stars in its presentation, including France's Victor Wembanyama of San Antonio, Serbia's Nikola Jokic of Denver, Slovenia's Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers and Greece's Giannis Antetokounmpo of Miami. Team announcements are expected soon as final agreements are completed.
Source: ESPN - Tue Oct 20, 11:58 AM ET
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).