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NBA Europe Names 12 Host Cities, Sets October 2027 Launch for 16-Team Semi-Open League

The format reserves four merit places, including one for the FIBA Champions League winner, to link the new competition to domestic pathways.

Overview

  • Permanent franchises are designated for Milan, Rome, London, Manchester, Paris, Lyon, Madrid, Barcelona, Berlin, Munich, Athens and Istanbul.
  • Four additional berths will be awarded on sporting merit, with one allocated to the FIBA Champions League champion and three to teams from selected national leagues still to be identified.
  • NBA Europe director Giorgos Aivazoglou disclosed the cities and structure during the Bocconi Football Business Forum in Milan on November 7, 2025.
  • Talks are underway with established basketball clubs and high-profile football brands to create or revitalize teams in key markets, including plans under discussion in Italy.
  • Leadership outlined exploratory ideas for future competitions involving NBA and European clubs, described as possibilities rather than confirmed events.