Photo Credit: Getty Images
For a few days, the circus is in town. The NBA is making its mark on Berlin before moving on to London, but the era of brief visits may soon be over. After years of speculation, plans for a European branch, NBA Europe, are becoming increasingly concrete – with a launch targeted for autumn 2027.
Many details are still up in the air, but some things are already clear. For example, the candidates. The major cities are in the spotlight for the North American pro league, and not just those with established basketball teams.
“In some cities, we’re starting completely from scratch,” said George Aivazoglou, Managing Director of the NBA for Europe, in November.
London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, Istanbul, and of course Berlin and Munich are all possibilities. The NBA is also considering football clubs, such as Inter and AC from Milan. According to Ingo Weiss, President of the German Basketball Federation (DBB), Borussia Dortmund is also in the mix. As always, it’s about big money, which means big names and visibility, since marketing opportunities are a key factor in this billion-dollar project. According to media reports, discussions with potential stakeholders, investors, and media partners are expected to take place this month – another step in building the new league, which is being developed in cooperation with the world governing body FIBA.
World and European champion Franz Wagner, who will play for the Orlando Magic in his hometown of Berlin against the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday (20:00 CET), likes the idea.
“I think it’s really possible,” said the 24-year-old. For him, NBA Europe would be “a great example of how cultures can work together. How you can combine strengths and create something truly cool.” Twelve teams are set to receive permanent licenses, with four additional spots awarded through the Champions League, FIBA’s top club competition, and a qualification process. The privately run EuroLeague, currently the number one in Europe, is out as a potential partner and, as things stand, will compete with the NBA. “The EuroLeague has received three offers from the NBA, and all three have been rejected,” Weiss recently told Munchner Merkur/TZ, voicing criticism. What is currently happening in the league is “frankly – absolutely unacceptable.”
EuroLeague and FIBA have been at odds for years, and now new tensions are inevitable. An NBA branch is also attractive to EuroLeague clubs, especially financially. It will be interesting to see how the teams decide in the coming months. It’s hard to imagine both leagues coexisting and growing side by side in the long term.
