NBA plans to launch a new European league in 2027

• NBA plans to create a new league with 16 teams in Europe.
• Jordy Aivazoglou announced the target cities for franchises.
• Four teams may qualify through national leagues.

NBA aims to launch a new European league in July 2027. This was announced by NBA Europe leader Jordy Aivazoglou at a conference in Milan. The league will feature 16 teams, of which 12 will be permanent franchises.

Among the target cities where teams may be located are London, Manchester, Paris, Lyon, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Milan, Berlin, Munich, Athens, and Istanbul. Importantly, four more teams may qualify for the league by winning the FIBA Champions League or competing in national leagues.

Aivazoglou noted that the first season could be "half-full," as not all slots may be filled immediately. The NBA also plans to organize a new tournament in which teams from Europe and the USA will participate.

In addition, negotiations are underway with existing European clubs, such as Real Madrid, Fenerbahçe, and Barcelona, regarding a possible transition to the new league. The NBA is actively working with investors and interested parties.

This project is the result of collaboration between the NBA and FIBA, which has been ongoing since the beginning of this year. It is known that approximately every sixth NBA player comes from Europe, highlighting the importance of this region for the league.

Tags: Sport/Basketball