The NBA is all set to go global. One of the most popular leagues in the USA, the NBA has been around for decades, attracting players and fans from around the world. And while 29 teams in the USA and the one in Canada have been the norm for years, the basketball league is all set for an upgrade soon — also considering a European league.
Of course, no expansion is without countless negotiations, plenty of deals falling through before a decision is made. NBA commissioner Adam Silver and his team, however, are determined to set their plan in motion.
NBA Representatives Continue Talks With Two Teams As League Expansion Project Speeds Up
According to a new report by Gazzetta dello Sport, the NBA is set to meet with two teams on Monday, January 19, in London. As of now, Olimpia Milano and AC Milan have been reported to attend the meeting.
Though this meeting won’t decide on details around the league, the NBA will reportedly “give a detailed presentation on the new European league, outlining its financial parameters, how the tournament will operate, and its requirements for franchise management.”
Along with NBA officials, interested teams and investors will also be attending the London meeting.
Having said that, Leah MacNab — the NBA’s Senior Vice President and Head of International Strategy — revealed that the league is planning to begin with a 16-team league in Europe. Ten teams will be permanent, with four being rotated in.
Interestingly, they plan to adopt the system used in European football (or soccer) and break away from the usual 30-team format.
“It is a very European system. We want to introduce a merit-based pathway into the league so that even teams in lower leagues can have the opportunity to play at the highest level of competition,” MacNab said in her interview.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver Wants To Capitalize on the League’s “Golden Era”
Speaking during the Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic game in Berlin, Silver discussed the NBA’s long-term plan to expand into another continent.
He referred to the current time as a ‘golden era’ for the league, proud of its fast-growing nature. Silver also highlighted basketball’s history with Europe, looking to capitalize on the very same passion and sentiment.
“The 1936 Olympics here in Berlin, that’s when basketball was first introduced into the Olympic movement. In fact, James Naismith came here to Berlin for those games and purportedly tossed up the ball for the opening tip of the Games. So, there is that long history here,” Silver explained.
And despite not having a final date on the matter, Silver added that the league remains immensely excited about a possible expansion. Apart from expanding in Europe, the NBA is reportedly also working to add a few more American cities and expand locally.
