With a statement, that could potentially reshape the landscape of international basketball, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has revealed that the league is in advanced discussions with FIBA, the sport’s global governing body, about expanding its presence in Europe. This initiative aims to tap into the region’s burgeoning commercial and competitive potential.
The NBA’s interest in Europe is not new. For decades, the league has explored various ways to increase its footprint on the continent. However, recent conversations have taken on a new level of seriousness.
“I continue to believe there’s an enormous opportunity here.” Silver said. “It’s not something where we’ll transform a league structure in the short term. But I think that there’s an appetite among our team owners for additional investment in global basketball…
…We have a huge initiative in China. We have a huge initiative in Africa. Given the quality of the basketball here in Europe, it would seem to make sense that we should be doing something here as well,”
The discussions are centered around two main ideas: an annual tournament or the creation of a new league. Both options are being considered to best leverage the high quality of basketball talent in Europe. The timing of these talks is particularly opportune, given the NBA’s recent media rights deals and the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympics, which have further highlighted the global appeal of the sport.
The NBA’s interest in Europe is also fueled by the success of European players in the league. Stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Victor Wembanyama have not only excelled but have become some of the most marketable athletes globally. About 60 current NBA players hail from Europe, underscoring the region’s importance to the league.
Silver emphasized that the NBA’s approach would be methodical and inclusive, involving extensive consultations with FIBA executives, league officials, and other stakeholders.
“We want to make sure we have a true grasp of the opportunity,” he noted.
This careful planning is aimed at ensuring that any new initiative aligns with the long-term goals of both the NBA and FIBA.
As the NBA continues to explore its options, one thing is clear: the league sees enormous potential in Europe. Whether through an annual tournament or a new league, the NBA’s expansion into Europe could mark a new era for international basketball, bringing the excitement of the NBA closer to fans across the continent.
