New York Power Brokers Cheer NBA's Billion-Dollar Europe Gamble

The NBA and FIBA have fielded bids reaching and surpassing the $1 billion mark for permanent franchises in a proposed 12-team European league, according to people familiar with the process. The unprecedented valuation has energized financial circles in New York, where several investment groups are vying for a seat at the table.

League officials confirmed that the shortlisting of prospective partners is underway, with a formal announcement of the inaugural dozen cities expected in the coming months. The move marks the league’s most aggressive international expansion effort to date and has already drawn comparisons to the early days of the Premier League’s global commercial boom.

While details remain tightly held, the structure under discussion would grant winning bidders perpetual membership in the competition, a model that has attracted sovereign wealth funds, private-equity consortia, and family offices alike. The bidding window has now closed, and advisers are preparing presentations for the final stage of vetting.

NBA and FIBA executives declined to comment on individual proposals, but a joint statement reiterated that the selection process will prioritize long-term market development, arena infrastructure, and community engagement. The final roster of host cities is expected to span at least six countries, with several capitals already lobbying aggressively behind closed doors.

New York-based financiers, many of whom have existing stakes in domestic franchises, view the European venture as a natural hedge against saturation in the U.S. market. One senior banker at a leading sports advisory firm described the appetite as “off the charts,” noting that the league’s willingness to grant permanent slots has created a land-grab mentality among investors.