German NBA journalist Len Werle recently shared exciting updates about the potential launch of the NBA Europe League in collaboration with FIBA. According to Werle’s tweet, negotiations for the league are progressing well, with plans to feature 10 host cities: Munich, Berlin, Milan, Rome, Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, London, Manchester, Istanbul, and Athens. While the league’s start date is tentatively set for the 2026-27 season, key details—such as whether it will run parallel to the EuroLeague or operate independently—remain undecided.
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Start unbestätigt wohl 2026-27, aber noch offen ob parallel zur EuroLeague, oder versetzt. Ob es neue Teams in diesen Städten geben wird, oder es tatsächlich die ‘großen’ sind, hab ich noch nicht in Erfahrung bringen können.— Len Werle (@RealLennyCarlos) March 25, 2025
Werle also hinted at the possibility of new teams being established in these cities, though it is unclear whether existing European basketball powerhouses will be involved. Additionally, rumors suggest that Red Bull may be interested in participating in some capacity, particularly in Munich.
In München scheint Gerüchten zufolge Red Bull interessiert daran zu sein, in welcher Form auch immer, involviert zu sein.
— Len Werle (@RealLennyCarlos) March 25, 2025
The concept of an NBA Europe League aligns with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s vision for expanding the league’s global footprint. Silver has previously expressed interest in launching a standalone European league, separate from the NBA and EuroLeague. Speaking in Paris earlier this year, Silver highlighted the untapped commercial potential of European basketball.
“While Europe continues to develop some of the very best players in the world—many of our most recent MVPs, of course, are European—we think that the commercial opportunity has not kept pace with the growth of the game,” Silver said.
Silver emphasized the NBA’s expertise in operating leagues, citing examples like the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and the G League. He believes that a professionalized European league could elevate the sport to new heights, creating larger commercial opportunities and attracting foreign investment. The NBA has already engaged with potential investors, including sovereign funds from the Middle East and wealthy American stakeholders, to explore the viability of the project.
While the NBA Europe League is still in its early stages, the idea has generated significant buzz among fans and industry insiders. If successful, the league could revolutionize basketball in Europe, providing a platform for elite competition and fostering deeper connections between the NBA and its international audience.
