Will Real Madrid join the NBA's European league?

Real Madrid is among the clubs the NBA is considering for its potential European league, though no definitive decisions have been made.

When will the NBA's European league launch?

The NBA's European league is tentatively expected to begin its play-in season in 2027-28, with the full league launching in 2028-29.

Can NBA teams play against European league teams?

Yes, the NBA envisions preseason competitions and potentially the NBA Cup featuring matchups between NBA and European league teams in the future.

Home / Sports / NBA Eyes European League With Real Madrid, Barca

NBA Eyes European League With Real Madrid, Barca

20 Nov

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Summary

NBA may launch a European league with 16 teams soon.
Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich are potential clubs.
The league could feature preseason games against NBA teams.

NBA Eyes European League With Real Madrid, Barca

The NBA is reportedly moving closer to launching its own European league, with current EuroLeague powerhouses such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich being considered as potential participants. NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum has publicly acknowledged these discussions, marking a significant step in the league's global expansion efforts. While no definitive decisions have been made, the NBA is exploring various investment opportunities and club structures for this ambitious project.

The envisioned European league is slated to comprise 16 teams, with an anticipated core of 10 to 12 permanent members situated in major European cities. A unique aspect involves four teams potentially qualifying through existing tournaments like FIBA's Basketball Champions League. The league's operational timeline suggests a play-in season around 2027-28, with the full league commencing in 2028-29, pending NBA owner approval.