The possibility of an NBA-run league in Europe could be decided in a few weeks, after Andreas Zagklis, general secretary of FIBA, said the body would remain in “deep discussion” with the NBA about starting a new league.
This league could compete with the EuroLeague and the top leagues in individual countries.
“There is clear interest (with the NBA) and ongoing discussions with FIBA,” Zagklis said, via The Athletic. “We have been and will continue to have discussions … with a company that uses the EuroLeague.
“It’s something that’s always been on our radar. We tried to get everyone together. This did not happen. So our job is to continue to have important discussions with our partners in the NBA.”
The general secretary went on to explain how “basketball in Europe is reaching below (the weight of) its commercial potential.” Yes, the NBA can help with that.
Zagklis says “FIBA has a very consistent approach” when talking about the possibility of the NBA launching its own European league.
“We want to grow our sports, but at the same time we want to protect what is the basis of our nature, which will not comply with the rules of the calendar, but it is a question of respecting the national teams. , national leagues,” Zagklis said. “We have a very well-developed ecosystem of national leagues and we certainly (want) to protect the work of not just a few clubs, but about 500 or 600 clubs in the pyramid that produce players and bring the game of basketball there. it’s today.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver talked about how the league is considering its options in Europe and how the league is learning that the Euro Leagues have a school-style training program for young talent, much better than the American G-League/college equivalent.
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