The NBA is pursuing ownership groups for a potential basketball league in Europe

December 22, 2025

TL;DR

NBA is exploring the creation of a new professional men's league in Europe in partnership with FIBA.
Engagement with prospective teams and ownership groups will start in January.
Franchise values are estimated to be upward of $1 billion.
JPMorgan and Raine Group are meeting with interested parties in Europe, reporting significant positive interest.
The goal is to take nonbinding bids next month and vote on green-lighting the league in March.
Potential ownership by sovereign wealth funds and current European soccer club owners is being considered.
The NBA plans to provide financial support and resources to European basketball, investing in domestic leagues and development programs.
Europe is identified as an 'untapped market' with 270 million potential basketball fans.
Basketball is considered the fastest-growing sport in Europe and the second-most popular behind soccer.
The NBA aims to establish teams in cities like Berlin, Paris, Rome, and London, and is considering Spain, Turkey, and Greece.
Potential future developments include exhibition games and competitions between NBA and European teams.
FIBA believes the project will improve the sustainability of the European basketball ecosystem.
The NBA recently completed the fifth season of its African League, also in partnership with FIBA.

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