EuroLeague sets its conditions for any collaboration with the NBA

EuroLeague clarified its position through a statement released this Friday. Meeting in Geneva this Wednesday with NBA and FIBA representatives, the leaders of Europe’s premier competition reaffirmed their position regarding the potential creation of a « NBA Europe. » While exchanges remain constructive, the European league reminded that cooperation would only be possible under specific conditions.

The four principles set by EuroLeague

The first requirement from EuroLeague is that the collaboration must benefit all stakeholders: clubs, national leagues, and fans.

The second is that, aware of concerns about its identity, the European competition must preserve its DNA and traditions.

Third, any joint initiative must aim to strengthen European basketball’s competitiveness, a pillar of its current attractiveness. Leaders want to avoid such cooperation weakening local structures in favor of an overly Americanized model.

Finally, EuroLeague wants the decision-making authority of any potential joint league to remain based in Europe, ensuring European basketball interests stay priority.

Update on recent meetings ℹ️

Find the latest Euroleague Basketball statement on our website ⤵️https://t.co/nYRwvp8wfE

— EuroLeague (@EuroLeague) October 10, 2025

An open but vigilant dialogue

EuroLeague specified that this second meeting « brought no new details about the NBA Europe project beyond what is already publicly known. »

The league nevertheless thanked NBA for its constructive approach and FIBA « for hosting and promoting the meetings. » While the door remains open, the European body intends to protect its model, which relies on a delicate balance between economics, identity, and competitiveness. The matter is far from settled, but one thing is certain: EuroLeague won’t let others dictate its rules. Meanwhile, NBA commissioner Adam Silver is pushing his NBA Europe project with a targeted launch in 2027. PSG and ASVEL are mentioned among the sixteen prospective franchises, while Paris Basketball closely monitors the situation.

Tony Parker, strong advocate for NBA Europe

As a reminder, the idea of an NBA league in Europe receives strong support in France from Tony Parker. The former Spurs star point guard and four-time NBA champion, also ASVEL’s president, involved in discussions as NBA’s liaison, said last month he was very favorable to the powerful North American league’s arrival in the Old Continent. He believes NBA’s brand strength could truly improve and transform European basketball, particularly thanks to the American league’s considerable financial resources.