The NBA will begin naming winning bidders for permanent European teams within 60 to 90 days [2], aiming for a 2027 launch.
This expansion represents a strategic move to capitalize on the growing popularity of basketball across Europe. By establishing a formal league structure, the NBA seeks to integrate international talent and commercial markets more deeply into its global brand.
NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum discussed the initiative during an interview on CNBC’s Sport podcast. Tatum said there is a “huge opportunity for European basketball” as the league looks to expand its footprint [3].
According to the league, winning bidders for 12 permanent European teams [1] will be announced in the coming months. While the initial bidding process focuses on these 12 slots, the NBA is eyeing a total league size of 16 teams [4].
Tatum said the league remains on track to debut in October 2027 [2]. The timing of the launch is designed to establish a professional ecosystem that can sustain long-term growth in multiple European cities [5].
Despite the aggressive timeline, the project faces potential complexities regarding existing regional structures. Tatum said the NBA remains in active discussions with the EuroLeague [4] to navigate the transition and ensure the new venture complements the existing basketball landscape.
This move follows years of increasing international presence in the NBA, where players from Europe have consistently risen to the top of the game. The creation of a permanent European wing would formalize this relationship, shifting the NBA from a North American league with global fans to a truly transnational sporting entity.
“There is a huge opportunity for European basketball.”
The establishment of an NBA-backed league in Europe signals a shift from passive international marketing to direct infrastructure ownership. By controlling the league's governance and bidding process, the NBA can standardize the professional experience for players and sponsors across the continent, potentially challenging the dominance of the EuroLeague and creating a more seamless pipeline for talent entering the U.S. league.
