The NBA is eyeing the potential for significant revenue in the European and Middle Eastern basketball market, estimating it could reach up to $3 billion. Team owners are set to vote on a proposal this week to launch a professional basketball league in Europe, aiming to establish a presence across the continent and take advantage of the sport’s popularity. The proposed league would consist of eight to ten teams and offer opportunities for investment in major cities like London and Paris, with franchise values projected at a minimum of $500 million. The NBA plans to sell permanent franchise spots to a variety of investors, with ownership split evenly between the league and new investors.
Additionally, the NBA’s European league could potentially welcome top EuroLeague teams to join in the future. This initiative is distinct from another basketball league seeking investment advised by Maverick Carter, known for his partnership with LeBron James, which aims to complement rather than compete with the NBA.
As the NBA explores opportunities abroad, international players like Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Dončić, and Victor Wembanyama have risen to stardom within the league, further boosting its global appeal. NBA team owners are expected to discuss and vote on the European league proposal during upcoming league meetings in New York City.
