The NBA’s proposed European basketball competition could face a delay if negotiations with EuroLeague fail to produce an agreement.
According to Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews, NBA Europe could begin operating in 2028 rather than 2027 if the NBA ultimately decides to establish an entirely separate competition.
The league continues targeting a 2027 launch, but the outcome of discussions with EuroLeague may influence the final timetable.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver recently confirmed that the project would proceed even without EuroLeague’s involvement.
Asked whether the NBA would launch its European competition independently, Silver responded:
“Yes, but we’re going to get something worked out with them.”
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The commissioner has maintained that reaching an agreement remains the preferred outcome, despite reports that EuroLeague shareholders rejected the NBA’s latest proposal.
EuroLeague is reportedly preparing a counteroffer following its shareholders’ meeting in Lake Como, with further discussions expected in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, the NBA continues working on potential franchise markets and attracting investors interested in joining the competition.
A final decision on the league’s launch date has not been announced, leaving both 2027 and a possible 2028 debut under consideration depending on how the project develops.
