Inside NBA Europe’s $10bn plan that has football clubs queuing to join
Some of the biggest names in European football will bid for a franchise in ESL-style league, now due to launch in 2028
TL;DR
- NBA Europe launch delayed to 2028, with a $10bn investment planned over 10 years.
- 12 permanent franchises and four temporary members will form the league.
- European football clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and PSG, are bidding for franchises.
- The London franchise has attracted bids over $1bn.
- EuroLeague clubs have rejected an initial investment offer from the NBA.
- The NBA aims to create a clear pathway to the top level in European basketball, similar to football.
- The league structure echoes the European Super League (ESL) with permanent and temporary members.
- Some football club executives, like Real Madrid's Florentino Pérez, may see NBA Europe as a model for future semi-closed football leagues.
- Manchester City's owners, CFG, are not bidding but co-own the likely venue for NBA games, the Co-op Live arena.
- The NBA plans to invest in basketball development, including academies and world-class arenas.