Reports say the EuroLeague rejected the NBA’s first merger pitch. Undeterred, the NBA and FIBA announced Thursday they’ll keep pressing forward with NBA Europe, deal or no deal.
“A partnership between the EuroLeague, FIBA and the NBA to unify Europe’s basketball scene would unleash massive growth for clubs, players and, above all, fans,” the statement reads (Twitter link via Scott Soshnick of Sportico). “The NBA and FIBA stay committed to launching a new professional men’s league in Europe and to building a stronger, sustainable ecosystem alongside partners who share our vision of growth, opportunity and the core principles of the European sports model.”
The news confirms the NBA doesn’t need a EuroLeague pact to start its own league, yet talks remain alive. Sources say the EuroLeague’s owners rebuffed the initial offer, but several of the 13 permanent clubs are rumored to be curious about joining NBA Europe, and a counter‑proposal is reportedly being drafted.
EuroLeague owners feel the NBA undervalued their product, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reports. He adds that Barcelona, a permanent EuroLeague member, signaled this week its willingness to consider a revised NBA offer.
While the NBA has fielded interest from many non‑EuroLeague markets, it’s unclear whether a fall 2027 debut is feasible without EuroLeague cooperation. Recent chatter hints the launch could slip to fall 2028 as infrastructure is built. For my money, the NBA can’t afford to wait.
Windhorst notes the EuroLeague emerged in 2001 after the FIBA SuproLeague and ULEB Euroleague clashed in the 2000‑01 season. Will the new league finally debut in 2027 or be pushed to 2028?