Adam Silver confirms the NBA European League could launch no later than 2028

NBA commissioner Adam Silver has long been recognized for his openness to change and willingness to explore new ideas aimed at broadening the league’s global appeal.

In March, Silver and FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis announced that the two organizations are in discussions about creating a new professional men’s basketball league in Europe. Speaking at a Front Office Sports conference, the 63-year-old confirmed that the league could launch as early as 2027, with 2028 as the latest target date.

“I don’t think I would want to go much longer than 2028. The opportunity is now to do something like this,” Silver said.

REPORT: The NBA Europe league will start in 2027 with teams based in London and Manchester, per @Eurohoopsnet

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The league is expected to begin with 16 teams, though that number could grow in the future. Top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Fenerbahçe Istanbul are likely candidates, with major multi-sport brands like Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain also in the mix.

The timing comes as interest in basketball surges across Europe. A recent study found that one in six current NBA players is European, while the arrival of French phenom Victor Wembanyama—drafted by the San Antonio Spurs—has only accelerated the sport’s popularity, particularly in France. Alongside Wembanyama, stars like Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, and Giannis Antetokounmpo have further cemented Europe’s growing influence on the NBA.

“Basketball’s probably the fastest-growing sport in the world right now, and it’s a huge No. 2 sport in Europe behind soccer, so I think there is a real opportunity,” Silver added.

As global demand for the NBA continues to expand, especially in emerging markets such as Asia, all eyes will be on whether the league can successfully establish a permanent foothold in Europe.

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