EuroLeague teams have rejected a formal proposal from the NBA to merge into a single NBA Europe league, a decision confirmed to ESPN by sources on Tuesday. The offer was made following more than two years of discussions about creating the new league and was anticipated, as EuroLeague clubs are pursuing their own expansion strategies in response to the NBA's interest in entering the European market.
Read More
The rejection, first reported by Front Office Sports, was characterized by some European media as a "buyout" offer. Nonetheless, the NBA's plans for NBA Europe will continue, targeting the establishment of a 16-team league that may commence as early as the 2027-28 season. The NBA has reportedly received lucrative expansion franchise bids from various cities across Europe and aims to field teams that can compete for fans, media rights, and sponsorship revenue.
During last month's board of governors meeting in New York, NBA owners were briefed on the European initiative, which they view as a long-term investment. One owner emphasized that the endeavor is a "20-year project."
In addition, a considerable number of the 13 permanent EuroLeague teams have indicated interest in aligning with NBA Europe, creating a complex landscape even as the coalition has resisted the NBA's overtures to recruit teams. Negotiations between parties are expected to persist.
The NBA's proposed model would allow teams to maintain participation in their national leagues while also competing in NBA Europe during the week, necessitating expanded rosters to accommodate the dual commitments and emphasizing the development of European players.
The last significant split in European basketball occurred in the 2000-01 season when the ULEB separated from a league governed by FIBA, but both sides reconciled the following year, giving rise to the modern EuroLeague.