NBA and FIBA push ahead with 2027 European league plans

The NBA and FIBA said Monday they remain determined to launch a new European basketball league by 2027, undeterred by Euroleague's decision to decline their collaboration offer at a shareholders' meeting this week. The rejection marks a significant setback for the joint venture, as Euroleague's backing would have consolidated the continent's basketball landscape under a unified structure.

Both organisations have signalled they will pursue their vision independently, with plans to establish a competition that would reshape professional basketball across Europe. The move reflects growing ambitions by the NBA to expand its global footprint and FIBA's interest in elevating the standard of European club competition.

Euroleague's refusal to partner with the two bodies underscores tensions within European basketball governance. The established league, which operates independently across multiple countries, has maintained its autonomous status and competitive structure for decades.

Details on the proposed league's format, participating clubs and timeline remain limited, though both the NBA and FIBA have indicated they plan to announce further specifics in coming months. The venture would likely represent one of the most significant developments in European basketball in recent years, potentially attracting top talent and investment to the continent.