NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is celebrating the successful two-game European series between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies last week. As Silver continues to push the NBA’s proposed new European league, the latest update from a British sports insider may be a setback.
NBA Unable To Secure Agreements From Legendary Manchester Clubs For European League
BBC sports journalist Jonty Colman revealed that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is planning the launch of a European basketball league. However, top European clubs Manchester City and Manchester United aren’t expected to contribute. Colman said, “Silver says he has spoken to Manchester City and Manchester United, though BBC Sport understands neither intends to have a team should the venture come to fruition.”
Colman added that the projected launch of NBA Europe is the 2027-28 season with potentially 16 new teams. Manchester City and Manchester United would be appealing because they currently do not have associated basketball teams. Silver has long expressed his admiration for European football culture, citing it as a direct influence for the launch of the NBA Cup tournament in 2023.
In an update, The Athletic reported that Silver met with representatives from several top European clubs, including Manchester City, regarding the potential construction of NBA Europe in London. The presence of Manchester City seemingly confirms that they are interested in being a part of the project. Representatives from Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, AC Milan, Bayern Munich, Alba Berlin, Olimpia Milano, ASVEL, and Panathinaikos were also on hand. The absence of Manchester United suggests they remain uninterested.
While the league has held multiple games in London and Paris over the years, the recent match between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies was the NBA’s first trip to Germany. The Magic defeated the Grizzlies 118-111, in what was a homecoming for Magic brothers Franz and Mo Wagner. The league plans to hold a game at the Co-op Live in Manchester next season before heading back to Paris in 2028.
Silver getting the support of the Manchester powerhouses would be a significant development for the league ahead of the game there in 2027. Both clubs are valued at well over $5 billion and have won a combined 30 English Premier League titles.
The creation of NBA Europe is also viewed by many as a threat to the current Euroleague, which has over 60 years of heritage and tradition. However, Silver hopes to collaborate rather than be viewed as a threat. It appears Silver’s vision is coming together.
