‘NBA Europe’ Launch in 2027 Hits a Crossroads With EuroLeague Vote

The NBA is targeting an October 2027 launch for 'NBA Europe,' a proposed 16-team closed competition featuring 12 permanent franchises and four annual qualifiers. Bids across target cities like London, Paris, and Milan have exceeded $500 million, with interest from soccer powerhouses such as Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and Manchester City. However, the venture faces a critical juncture ahead of an October 5 vote in Milan, where EuroLeague clubs will decide whether to partner with the NBA or compete against it.

Commissioner Adam Silver affirmed that the 2027 launch date remains firm regardless of the outcome. A vote to join would transition established European clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich directly into the league. Alternatively, a rejection would prompt EuroLeague CEO Chus Bueno to expand their existing competition to 24 teams by 2027-28 to rival the NBA directly.