Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson smiles as the NBA eyes Europe (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
The NBA’s European league plan earned Atkinson’s full support, as he argues the U.S. system falls short on youth development.
Speaking after his team’s Malaga camp, the reigning Coach of the Year reflected on a decade spent playing and coaching across Europe.
“I love the NBA and our talks with FIBA to launch NBA Europe. It will unlock new chances for players worldwide,” he said.
When asked what European prospects bring that U.S. players lack, he pointed to structural differences.
Young Europeans often train alongside seniors, even competing in adult divisions like France’s INSEP third tier, fostering vital mentorship.
NBA Europe targets an October 2027 debut, eyeing London and Manchester as host cities.
He highlighted the contrast between the two development models.
“In America youngsters mainly face peers, missing the grind of seasoned opponents. Veterans teach them a lot,” he explained.
“Both paths have merit; it’s impossible to crown one superior. They’re simply distinct routes,” he added.
Having logged years in French clubs such as Montpellier and Nantes, plus stints in Spain and Germany, Atkinson truly knows the European circuit.
He welcomed a league that could blend the best of both systems, predicting a boost for global basketball.
“Coaching already feels the European imprint on the NBA and vice‑versa. Players will reap the same benefits,” he noted.
He even points to a European‑styled player on his roster.
Khalifa Diop rose from Spain’s fourth tier at 15 to the ACB by 19, was drafted 39th in 2022 and stayed overseas until signing last month.
Anthony Black of the Magic wowed fans with a dunk‑of‑the‑year during the NBA’s European tour.
Since March 2025 the NBA and FIBA have explored a 16‑team pan‑European league, aiming for a 2027 launch with London and Manchester among the cities.
New Orleans will face San Antonio at Manchester’s Co‑op Live on Jan 17, marking the first regular‑season game there.
Merrill: NBA Europe would have been a great option
Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill says NBA Europe offers a viable route for college‑exit players (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
The concept already resonates with athletes.
When asked if a European league would have suited his post‑Utah State plans, Merrill answered affirmatively.
“There was a moment I thought I might head overseas. A league like NBA Europe would have been perfect,” he said.
Drafted 60th in 2020, Merrill spent two G‑League years before Cleveland signed him and has been tracking the project.
He also flagged financial implications of the two pathways.
“College athletes now earn massive sums. I’m curious how that clashes with NBA Europe’s model,” he remarked.
Since July 2025 U.S. schools directly pay players, with a 2026‑27 cap of $21.58 million per school; men’s programs average $4.2 million, and top‑conference rosters cost $7‑10 million per season, per Forbes.
Cavaliers coach Atkinson congratulates guard Sam Merrill on the sideline (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
Player movement has largely flowed one way—European stars heading to U.S. colleges. Whether a new league flips that trend hinges on money, with franchise bids rumored between $500 million and $1 billion, yet no payout details released.
Merrill follows European basketball from afar.
“I love the physicality here. Games feel like playoffs, with two matches a week and intense practice,” he observed.
“People underestimate how high‑level EuroLeague and top domestic leagues really are,” he added.