The NBA and FIBA will begin engaging European clubs and owners next month to advance a planned new basketball league in Europe, signaling momentum for the project.

FIBA secretary general Andreas Zagklis says the format follows the European sport model, offering a fair pathway for ambitious clubs to reach the top.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver says the opportunity in Europe is enormous and looks forward to meeting prospective clubs and ownership groups that share the vision.

Valuations for permanent franchises are expected to exceed $1 billion, with JPMorgan and the Raine Group approaching potential investors.

Permanent members under discussion include Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, with other clubs possibly joining as the plan develops.

The plan has sparked debate over its impact on existing competitions, with opinions divided on its potential disruption or benefit.

Portuguese clubs like Benfica have been mentioned as potential partners, with Lisbon discussed as a strategic city and possible incentives for Benfica, though no formal participation yet.

Potential host countries and cities include London or Manchester (UK), Paris or Lyon (France), Madrid or Barcelona (Spain), Rome or Milan (Italy), Munich or Berlin (Germany), Athens (Greece), and Istanbul (Turkey).

Key markets being considered mirror those locations: Britain, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Greece, and Turkey.

Target countries include the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Greece, and Turkey with specific city possibilities identified.

The exact start date and team count aren’t finalized, but discussions have explored a 16-team model with 12 permanent spots and 4 qualifiers.

A common format under consideration is a 16-team league featuring 12 fixed teams and four qualifying spots for inaugural play.