In a historic decision to transform the international basketball scene, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis have signaled intentions to study the formation of a professional European basketball league.

The new league will compete with the EuroLeague and further open up economic avenues for European basketball clubs.

Why Now is the Right Time for a European League?

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FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis (L) and NBA commissioner Adam Silver (R) speak during a press conference to announce the NBA's ongoing quest to further align with FIBA and expand its role in European basketball, in New York, on March 27, 2025. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images

Basketball comes in second for the sport with the most followers in Europe, and its following is constantly on the increase. Silver pointed out that around 15% of the players in the NBA are from Europe, and the past five of six MVPs have been European. Still, with this vast interest, European basketball does not enjoy the organizational and economic infrastructure the NBA excels in, according to ESPN.

Silver believed that the NBA could fill the gap in how leagues work in Europe. He added that with the help of FIBA, they can take the game further in the region.

Overwhelming Endorsement from Top NBA and FIBA Officials

Silver assured that the board of governors of the NBA voted unanimously in favor of the concept, and FIBA's board of directors was equally supportive. While the timeline is uncertain, the excitement from the two governing bodies means the process is moving forward.

Silver Explains New Europe Pro League Format

The new league would consist of 16 teams, with 12 being permanent and four being available for teams to qualify. This new league would not use EuroLeague rules, but rather international rules, such as 40-minute games and a salary cap, to provide equal competition.

Silver noted that the salary cap would provide equality, giving every team competing an equal chance of winning the championship.

Joining Forces with Europe's Top Clubs

A key component of the plan includes aligning with current top-tier European clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. These teams are not only Europe's largest sporting names in basketball but also the most powerful organizations in the sports world. Working with them could build a better platform for the league instead of fighting against the giants.

Why Did the NBA Choose FIBA Over the EuroLeague?

Interestingly, the NBA decided to collaborate with FIBA, the international governing body of the sport, rather than the EuroLeague. There has been tension between FIBA and the EuroLeague for years, so FIBA is a more strategic and cooperative partner for this venture.

Zagklis was adamant about the transparency of these talks, stating that this is intended to raise the whole European basketball ecosystem.

"We're going to have a full range of discussions," Zagklis said. "I want to be clear about the openness of our position, at least speaking for FIBA right now, on these discussions. This is very important, that we are having these conversations for our fans and for the development and growth of our sport."