Key facts
- EuroLeague CEO Chus Bueno is open to discussing a partnership or investment with the NBA.
- No formal offer has been received from the NBA.
- Bueno believes a collaboration could prevent fragmentation of value in European basketball.
- The EuroLeague plans to expand to 24 teams in the 2027/28 season.
- Paris, London, Naples, and Milan are among cities being considered for new franchises.
EuroLeague CEO Chus Bueno has indicated a willingness to engage in discussions with the NBA regarding a potential partnership or investment, a scenario that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also favors. The NBA is reportedly seeking expansion fees between $500 million and $1 billion for a new European league, which could involve new clubs or integrating existing EuroLeague teams. Bueno, a former NBA executive, believes that a collaboration would be mutually beneficial, helping to avoid fragmentation of value in European basketball. He stated that the EuroLeague is prepared to continue its own expansion plans if a deal with the NBA does not materialize, with cities like Paris, London, Naples, and Milan under consideration for new franchises as part of a planned expansion to 24 teams for the 2027/28 season. Bueno is scheduled to meet with NBA executive George Aivazoglou this week to explore potential joint ventures.