EuroLeague turned down the opening offer. The NBA and FIBA are pressing ahead with their European league plans anyway.
The two organizations issued a joint statement Thursday reaffirming their commitment to the project, while continuing to express interest in a partnership with EuroLeague.
“The NBA and FIBA remain committed to moving forward with a new professional men’s league in Europe and helping build a stronger, more sustainable basketball ecosystem alongside partners who share our vision of growth, opportunity and the core principles of the European sports model,” the statement read, via Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors.
That follows EuroLeague shareholders’ rejection of the NBA’s initial merger proposal. It doesn’t necessarily end the negotiations.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, EuroLeague shareholders believe the offer undervalued their competition. Barcelona has indicated that an amended proposal would receive consideration, and EuroLeague reportedly is exploring a counteroffer. Nonetheless, the NBA and FIBA made their preference clear.
“A partnership between the EuroLeague, FIBA and the NBA to unify the European basketball ecosystem would unlock the game’s enormous potential across Europe for the benefit of clubs, players and, most importantly, fans,” they said.
The timetable remains a question. Fall 2027 has been the target, but Windhorst notes uncertainty about whether that is achievable without EuroLeague’s cooperation. A potential move to fall 2028 has also been discussed in recent reporting.
The NBA has received bids from other clubs and markets. Thursday’s statement signals that it intends to keep developing those plans while the established European powers consider their next move.
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