Overview
- The NBA, EuroLeague and FIBA are expected to meet in the next few days to discuss a joint top-tier competition that could expand to 24 teams as March’s franchise bid deadline arrives.
- NBA commissioner Adam Silver said last Wednesday that working together would be the best outcome for European basketball, even as the league has prepared an NBA Europe launch targeted for 2027–28.
- EuroLeague named former NBA executive Chus Bueno as CEO, and his hire has raised confidence that the sides can find common ground after past talks stalled over control.
- Sources tied to the bid process say most investor interest comes from U.S. funds with local interest in Paris and Rome, Arabian funds have grown cautious due to the war in the Middle East, and no bidders are agreeing to a $500 million entry fee.
- EuroLeague powers Real Madrid and Fenerbahce are reported to be close to new 10-year licenses, a move that would strengthen the league’s hand heading into the talks and any plan that must fit FIBA’s national-team calendar.