The NBA is dreaming big, and it’s not just about adding a few more teams stateside.
Hoops Going Global?
So, here’s the scoop: The NBA is cooking up something huge with FIBA, and it’s got the EuroLeague sweating a bit. Joe Vardon from The Athletic spilled the beans, saying that FIBA’s big cheese, Andreas Zagklis, is steering this new venture. Imagine an NBA-backed league going toe-to-toe with Europe’s finest. Zagklis himself said, “There is clear interest (by the NBA) and there are ongoing discussions with FIBA.” Sounds like they’re plotting something major, and I gotta say, I’m all for it. More hoops, more fun!
FIBA will remain in โserious conversationโ with the NBA about starting a new league to โcompete with the EuroLeague and top pro leagues in individual countries.โ
(via The Athletic)
โ Basketball Forever (@bballforever_)
Europe’s Calling, and the NBA’s Listening
After the Paris Olympics in 2024, Adam Silver couldn’t stop talking about Europe. He sees a goldmine of opportunity over there. “It’s not something where we’ll transform a league structure in the short term,” he said, but he’s hinting at something big down the line. In my opinion, it’s about time the NBA spread its wings and tapped into the European talent pool. Who wouldn’t want to see more Luka Doncics and Giannis Antetokounmpos lighting up the court?
Zagklis chimed in, too, emphasizing the importance of respecting national teams and leagues. “We have a very well-developed ecosystem of national leagues,” he said. It’s like building a basketball empire without stepping on too many toes.
Mexico City: A Dream or a Reality?
Now, shifting gears a bit, let’s talk about expansion closer to home. Adam Silver’s been dropping hints about adding more teams in North America, and Mexico City is on his radar. During an NBA game in Mexico City, he mentioned he’d “love to have a team” there, but admitted it’s a long shot for now. Honestly, I think it’s a fantastic idea. Imagine the fan base and the energy! But Silver also pointed out that US cities are still the frontrunners for expansion.
Check this out:
Silver’s been making the rounds, and while he’s excited about Mexico City, he admits it’s a tougher sell than expanding in the US. “Being direct, itโs highly unlikely Mexico City would jump above US cities that are currently under consideration,” he said. But hey, never say never, right?
So, what do you think? Could we see an NBA team in Mexico City, or will Europe steal the spotlight with a new league? Either way, the future of basketball is looking pretty exciting!
