NBA Europe Set for 2027 Launch Even Without EuroLeague

The NBA remains committed to launching its new European basketball competition in October 2027, even if it cannot reach an agreement with the EuroLeague. NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum confirmed that preparations are moving forward, with negotiations to bring clubs into the project nearing completion.

Speaking ahead of the start of the 2026-27 NBA season, Tatum said the league was working quickly and expected to announce details of the inaugural participants in the near future. The proposed competition, developed in partnership with FIBA, is expected to feature 16 teams, combining permanent franchises with places earned through sporting qualification.

The NBA believes the project could bring major investment into European basketball, including funding for academies, grassroots development, marketing, league operations and arena infrastructure. Tatum also argued that the new model would offer clubs greater financial stability, projecting billions of dollars in distributions over its first decade.

However, the relationship with the EuroLeague remains unresolved. EuroLeague club owners rejected an initial NBA partnership proposal at a meeting in October, while CEO Chus Bueno has warned that two competing elite competitions could fragment the European basketball market. Bueno has nevertheless left the door open to further talks, provided any future agreement protects the interests of EuroLeague clubs.