The NBA is drawing strong interest in a Europe-wide league, with reports of at least 120 prospective partners and bids reaching or surpassing the $1 billion mark.

Bids at or above $1 billion and entry-fee expectations around $500 million suggest robust market demand from multiple teams and investors, with the NBA’s minimum bid set around half a billion.

Several bidders include established clubs and investors, reflecting broad engagement as the league looks to expand beyond the Atlantic.

The NBA envisions a European basketball equivalent of MLS, contrasting the continent’s franchise model with MLS-style club valuations.

Some bidders are scrutinizing the NBA business model closely, signaling ongoing challenges as bids are evaluated and shortlists are formed.

NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said bids will be reviewed and shortlisted to partners aligned with the league’s vision, with new teams announced on a rolling basis.

A meeting between the NBA and EuroLeague is planned for the end of April, with Raine Group and JPMorgan Chase advising on the initiative.

Alba Berlin and Bayern Munich are considered strong contenders to host one of the league’s fixed franchises.

NBA officials will review bids to shortlist partners who align with the growth vision for basketball in Europe, advancing the continent-wide expansion.

The exact participants and start date will be announced gradually, with weeks of negotiations anticipated as the process unfolds.

If a bidder loses out on their first-choice team, they can bid for other franchises through a matchmaking process, a tactic used in other major sports acquisitions.

Germany-specific interest centers on Alba Berlin and Bayern Munich as leading candidates to host a fixed European team.