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Tony Parker Says NBA Europe Is Inevitable, Calls for NBA–FIBA–EuroLeague Collaboration

Parker urges a unified path with NBA–FIBA talks still exploratory.

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Aug 8, 2024; Paris, France; Former NBA player Tony Parker looks on during the first half between France and Germany in a men's basketball semifinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Speaking in Chengdu, the ASVEL owner reiterated that an NBA-run European league is “a matter of time” and offered to help broker cooperation with EuroLeague and FIBA.
  • Paris-based ASVEL has been part of Parker’s early conversations about joining a prospective NBA-backed competition, according to his comments reported this week.
  • Silver announced in March that the NBA would explore a European league with FIBA, and coverage notes discussions continue without formal agreements as some reports suggest an earliest launch as soon as next year.
  • Reporting summarized by Sports Business Journal outlines a proposed 14–16 team format with potential slots for existing clubs and new entrants, with expansion fees in the $500 million to $1 billion range and some proceeds flowing to current NBA owners.
  • Outreach has included reported meetings in London with U.K. prime minister Keir Starmer, while EuroLeague’s chief executive has warned a new circuit could create fan confusion and says further talks with FIBA and the NBA are planned this month.