The NBA is actively pursuing the creation of a pan-European basketball league, generating interest and mixed reactions among current NBA players. The initiative aims to expand the sport’s global footprint by launching new teams in major European cities such as London, Paris, Rome, and Manchester, supported by international investment groups.
League officials, led by Commissioner Adam Silver, are also exploring partnerships in other key cities including Barcelona, Madrid, Milan, Athens, Istanbul, Berlin, Munich, and Lyon. The NBA anticipates that franchise values could reach up to $1 billion, with team bidding expected to begin in early 2026 and the league potentially debuting in 2027.
Market Potential and Strategic Vision for NBA Europe
Silver highlights Europe as a promising market due to its rich basketball heritage and talent pool. Approximately 15% of today’s NBA players are European, and basketball enjoys tremendous popularity on the continent, ranking second only to soccer with an estimated fan base of 300 million.
Players Express Varied Opinions on Joining the New League
Several NBA athletes have voiced openness about the prospect of playing in an NBA Europe league. Charlotte’s rookie Kon Knueppel said,
“Yeah, it would interest me a little bit. I think that’s pretty cool,”
as reported by Joe Vardon of The Athletic.
Houston guard Reed Sheppard echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm about playing overseas:
“I think all of Europe is really cool. And, going over there would be cool to visit, but also be able to play basketball for sure.”
New York Knicks All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns responded thoughtfully to the idea, sharing,
“That’s a great question right there,”
and adding,
“I would (consider playing in NBA Europe). I would. I really, I love international basketball, love playing FIBA basketball as well. Obviously, not better than playing in the NBA. But it would be pretty cool to even see that get off the ground and actually operate. But, possibly, one day to be part of that would be pretty cool.”
On the other hand, some established players remain hesitant. Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell stated firmly,
“I got to get a championship with the Cavs first before I do anything else, so I guess the answer is no.”
Meanwhile, Milwaukee forward Bobby Portis described the project as intriguing yet expressed reservations:
“I don’t know, man. I like the states. I like to live here. .. It would be tough for me to go over there. Intriguing, though — super intriguing.”
Potential Consequences for the Global Basketball Landscape
This NBA Europe project could redefine professional basketball’s reach and the careers of players like Karl-Anthony Towns, Donovan Mitchell, and Bobby Portis. If successfully launched, it may offer fresh opportunities for competition and also deepen the sport’s connection to its vast European fan base. The coming years will be crucial as investors and cities prepare for franchise bids, with player interest and retention serving as key factors in the league’s ultimate success.
