MIES, SWITZERLAND AND NEW YORK— The NBA and FIBA are teaming up to explore a new men’s basketball league in Europe. They plan to start this exciting journey in January by talking to various teams and ownership groups interested in joining.
This new league isn’t just about a few fixed teams. It will allow every club in a FIBA-affiliated domestic league in Europe to compete for a spot each year. Teams can qualify through the FIBA Basketball Champions League or a special end-of-season tournament. The league’s schedule will also sync with domestic leagues and national teams, paving the way for players to represent both their clubs and their countries throughout the year.
FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis expressed optimism about this project. He said, “This is fantastic for the European basketball community. It offers ambitious clubs a fair chance to rise to the top. Our aim is to create a sustainable basketball culture that supports players, clubs, and fans alike.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver shared similar feelings. He stated that discussions with various stakeholders have shown that there’s a huge opportunity to create this new league. “We believe that with FIBA’s collaboration, we can make a meaningful impact on European basketball’s future,” he added.
Interestingly, a survey conducted by the European Basketball Federation this year revealed that 70% of fans are excited about the possibility of a new league. Many fans feel it could elevate the level of competition and bring more excitement to basketball in Europe. This aligns with the growing trend of athletes seeking higher competition levels to improve their skills.
As the NBA and FIBA proceed, they are also focused on enhancing the overall basketball environment in Europe. Their commitment includes financial backing for domestic leagues and youth academies, which is crucial for nurturing future talent. This move has the support of various basketball professionals, emphasizing the importance of structured development in the sport.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds!
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