NBA x FIBA : New league in Q1 2026
A bold idea with global backing
The National Basketball Association and the International Basketball Federation are moving closer to what could become one of the most significant structural changes in European basketball in decades.
According to a joint announcement from the NBA, the league’s governing body in North America, and FIBA, the sport’s global federation, both organisations plan to advance discussions in January on the creation of a new pan European men’s professional league.
Rather than launching immediately, the next phase will focus on engaging potential clubs and ownership groups across Europe to assess interest, financial readiness, and long term viability.
Rethinking how elite basketball works in europe
At the heart of the discussions is an attempt to balance permanence with openness.
Read also: Real madrid’s bold plan for Endrick revealed in surprise Lyon move
According to the NBA and FIBA, the proposed league would feature long term participating teams while still allowing clubs from existing domestic competitions to qualify on sporting merit. That pathway would run through FIBA competitions such as the Basketball Champions League, as well as a season ending qualification tournament.
This approach is designed to avoid replacing national leagues, instead layering a new elite competition on top of Europe’s existing basketball structure.
A calendar built around players, not pressure
One of the most sensitive issues in European basketball has long been scheduling conflicts between clubs and national teams.
The NBA and FIBA said the new league would aim to align its calendar with domestic leagues and international windows, allowing players to represent both their clubs and their national teams throughout the year.
Read also: Pep Guardiola warns City players face exclusion if they break Christmas rules
According to the announcement, this alignment is intended to reduce strain on players while preserving international competitions that remain central to the European game.
More than a league, an ecosystem investment
Beyond the competition itself, the project carries a broader development ambition.
According to FIBA and the NBA, the organisations plan to dedicate financial resources and technical support to strengthen basketball across Europe. This would include support for domestic leagues, youth academies, and existing development programs for players, coaches, and referees.
Rather than concentrating resources only at the top level, the stated goal is to reinforce the full basketball pipeline, from grassroots to elite competition.
Read also: Fifa clears Al Nassr: coming in clutch for Ronaldo?
Why this moment matters for european basketball
Pan European leagues have been discussed before, often meeting resistance from clubs, federations, or fans concerned about tradition and access.
What makes this proposal different is the direct involvement of the NBA, an organisation with unmatched commercial reach, and FIBA, which oversees international competition worldwide.
If the talks progress beyond exploration, the outcome could reshape how European basketball is played, watched, and financed for years to come.
Sources, NBA announcement, FIBA statement
Read also: Marcus Rashford’s future shifts after Hansi Flick decision
Read also: Real Madrid approves: Endrick to Lyon
