NBA Europe planned 2027 launch is facing fresh questions, with several European basketball stakeholders reportedly expressing doubts over whether the NBA can get its new competition off the ground next season.
Despite the growing skepticism, the NBA remains committed to its current timeline. A league spokesperson told NBA insider Marc Stein that NBA Europe continues to “target a rollout beginning in October 2027.”
Stein, who has been closely following the NBA’s plans for its European competition, reported that he has heard increasing doubts during his recent travels across Europe.
“Throughout my travels in recent weeks, I’ve heard pointed skepticism from various stakeholders in the game abroad questioning whether the NBA is going to be able to launch its new NBA Europe venture next season as Silver and deputy commissioner Mark Tatum have long hoped,” Stein reported.
The NBA, however, has rejected suggestions that the project could be delayed.
“The league office, however, staunchly dismissed such suggestions when asked directly on Monday,” he added.
Adam Silver faces questions over NBA Europe
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is expected to address NBA Europe during his Tuesday news conference, with the project’s timeline likely to be among the topics attracting attention.
According to Stein, Silver could face questions about whether the NBA can still meet its planned structure and launch timetable, as well as whether a potential agreement with EuroLeague could affect the project.
The timing is particularly significant because EuroLeague club owners are also preparing for a crucial October 5 meeting, where a potential NBA proposal is expected to be discussed.
The NBA has previously indicated that it intends to move ahead with its European project, while EuroLeague is developing its own plans for the future structure of the competition.
NBA Europe planned as 16-team league
The proposed NBA Europe competition is currently planned to launch with 16 teams, including 12 permanent franchises and four annual qualifiers.
The NBA has been exploring several of Europe’s biggest basketball markets. Paris, Berlin, Munich, Barcelona, Madrid, Milan, Rome, London and Manchester are among the cities being considered for the project. However, the final list of participating clubs and cities has not yet been determined.
The relationship between NBA Europe and EuroLeague also remains one of the biggest unresolved questions. The two sides have been exploring potential cooperation, while EuroLeague shareholders are expected to evaluate the NBA’s plans alongside their own expansion and franchise strategy.
