Four EuroLeague Teams Expected to Join NBA Europe
NBA Europe is gradually taking shape ahead of its planned launch, aiming to feature several current EuroLeague teams. Four EuroLeague clubs—Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and ASVEL—are anticipated to join the new league.
Former EuroLeague Team ALBA Berlin to Join
ALBA Berlin, a EuroLeague participant for 24 years until the current season, is also expected to receive a permanent spot in NBA Europe.
According to Joe Vardon from The Athletic, "Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne are expected to join the NBA Europe project. ALBA Berlin, which competed in the EuroLeague for the past 24 years up until this season, are also expected to receive a spot in NBA Europe."
Other Teams and Partnerships
Although Paris Basketball competes in the EuroLeague, the NBA is reportedly exploring a partnership with Qatari authorities, owners of Paris Saint-Germain soccer club. Sources from BasketNews indicate that Galatasaray Istanbul will be the only NBA Europe team representing Turkey.
NBA Europe Launch and Team Locations
On Friday, managing director George Aivazoglou confirmed that NBA Europe aims to launch in October 2027. The league will have 12 permanent teams operating in major cities across Europe:
- Italy: Rome and Milan
- United Kingdom: London and Manchester
- France: Paris and Lyon
- Spain: Madrid and Barcelona
- Germany: Berlin and Munich
- Greece: Athens (one team)
- Turkey: Istanbul (one team)
"We're talking with some existing basketball teams," stated George Aivazoglou, highlighting ongoing discussions regarding team participation.
Author's summary: NBA Europe plans to launch in 2027 featuring 12 teams, including four current EuroLeague clubs and notable cities across Europe, aiming to strengthen basketball's presence in the region.