A shift in the EuroLeague is taking place with the NBA looking to expand its territory in Europe. The NBA is planning its debut in 2026 in partnership with FIBA and support from PSG as it aims to change the basketball trajectory worldwide. The league has started making its mark in Europe, as NBA Europe is said to feature a few EuroLeague teams. This may affect the EuroLeague’s dominance, and fans and analysts remain alert as they await the further expansion of the NBA to the world.
NBA’s European expansion plans for 2026
The introduction of NBA Europe and its growth is a form of validation from the European sector, especially with FIBA partnering with the league. 2026 awaits 16 teams ready to be a part of NBA Europe, including the teams that have ditched the EuroLeague to join the NBA. Confirming their partnership, an NBA statement read:
“The NBA will report this week on its exploration of a new men’s basketball league in Europe, in partnership with FIBA.”
Teams from the following cities may also join the NBA in Europe: Madrid, Barcelona, Munich, Berlin, London, Manchester, Milan, Rome, Istanbul, Athens, and Paris. Targeting these cities is a game plan for the NBA, which is aiming to get recognition from global football brands that may potentially become partners in the league.
Considering the possibility, the NBA would have 50% ownership of NBA Europe, while the owner of the partners holds the other half. A new league is under discussion, and confirming this was the NBA’s secretary general, Andreas Zagklis:
“There is clear interest [from the NBA] and there are ongoing discussions with FIBA.”
The NBA may consider taking on EuroLeague teams
Scouting from the European cities previously mentioned, the NBA is closely observing Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne, and Fenerbahce Istanbul as the potential franchises joining NBA Europe. The NBA’s strategy aims to include EuroLeague teams for the credibility from European basketball fans and professional interests as an upcoming league in Europe.
Making up the eight to 10 franchises will be established basketball teams and other teams that will find their space in FIBA’s Basketball Champions League. The possibility of EuroLeague teams joining the NBA depends on the decision to either renew their licenses after the 2025-26 season or consider joining the NBA.
Entering European basketball, the NBA aims to promote a balance in competition with existing leagues by blending in past EuroLeague franchises and including new teams ready to expand. Focusing on financial backing from investors will be a priority.
PSG’s confirmed interest in NBA Europe
A brand partnership is underway for NBA Europe, with a Paris Saint-Germain spokesperson confirming that they have expressed interest. Leveraging this interest, the NBA is looking to Qatar Sports Investments, which is PSG’s shareholder, for further options in their potential partnership. Paris Basketball, which may be under the ownership of PSG, was founded in 2018 and is positioned as the current competition under the EuroLeague.
David Kahn, president of Paris Basketball, showed excitement for NBA Europe, saying it’s going to be “huge.” Another option was expressed that excludes Paris Basketball and instead focuses on a new franchise separate from PSG. This option brings in the potential sponsorship of Arctos, which is a PSG shareholder and connected with NBA player Kevin Durant.
Expanding all over the globe, the NBA is opening up the conversation about basketball transformation, and with NBA Europe entering the discussion, the globalization of basketball is a real possibility. Strategizing about including the resources and connections gathered by the NBA over decades, coupled with their ties to Europe, NBA Europe may have more interest in their lineup than just the PSG. Basketball fans and sports analysts alike are closely observing the transformation of European basketball, with NBA Europe becoming more tangible by the day.
