The NBA has a reputation for generating revenue through its basketball spectacle concept and constant drive for innovation. And without a doubt, that reputation is a big draw for Europe’s big clubs to bet on the new continental competition the NBA is set to launch in 2027 rather than staying in the league. euro league. In fact, one of the NBA’s priorities is to further leverage the commercial aspects of Old World basketball.

But like any company that starts, and no matter how good the idea is, the partners who join it will not make a profit right away and will have to pay for it out of pocket, and that’s no different. balsa and real madrid.

This was acknowledged by American League Commissioner Adam Silver in a preview of the game. orlando magic and memphis grizzlies From Berlin.

“At least initially, funding will come from the league’s member clubs. As with any start-up, participants will become investors and seek returns over time. Even if this league launches successfully, I think it will take some time for it to become a viable commercial venture. I think all participants realize this is not for anyone with a short-term horizon,” the NBA CEO said.

In a statement to Sportish’s special envoy for NBA games in Europe, Oscar Peris, Silver confirmed that he had held negotiations with “Real Madrid, as well as other Spanish clubs” in light of rumors that the white club had given the OK to NBA games. NBA Europe.

Apart from existing clubs, the continent’s new top competition could see the creation of new franchises in the following cities: london, manchester Either rome In situations where the team needs to make a large investment at the beginning of the project.

Although the list of participating clubs is still completely unknown, the NBA confirmed that negotiations with other key players are progressing.

“We have been talking with other potential stakeholders, including media companies who would like to feature it, potential media partners and traditional sponsors who would like to work with the league. We are looking at opportunities to grow the arena infrastructure not only here in Germany, but across the continent. This is something we are very excited about,” Silver explained.

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The essence of European basketball

Speaking of arenas, one of the concerns about NBA Europe is that with this new competition, European basketball will lose something essentially important, such as the exciting hellish environments found in countries such as: greece, serbia Either Turquier. The commissioner partially dismissed concerns about the potential loss of basketball’s identity in the Old Continent.

“Respecting the tradition of European basketball is very important. Our partner is FIBA ​​and we are trying to find the best combination of old and new, including not only FIBA ​​but also European organizations that understand the uniqueness of European basketball,” Silver added.

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Conflict with Euroleague?

EuroLeague is also among the actors to be considered in the launch of a new European NBA league, but EuroLeague does not seem very keen on collaborating to facilitate that possibility. two top continental competitions celebrated at the same time.

Considering that the letter sent by EuroLeague mentions a scenario in which legal action will be taken. adam silver He seemed conciliatory.

“I have sent legal documents to my attorney, but I do not believe a conflict is inevitable. I believe we have an opportunity to grow the game. We are not competing with other sports or basketball organizations. I am focused on the competitive environment with other entertainment options. -A product of Tament, but if you believed that the current EuroLeague is the ceiling, you would not spend so much time and attention on this project. In a statement collected by euro hoop.

But before that cap is reached, clubs will need to invest their own money to lay the groundwork, much like a partner setting up a company. balsa and real madrid They will need to evaluate whether the upfront costs requested by NBA Europe are worth it in order to earn a higher income.