
AI-generated summary
The NBA has assessed that the European basketball market has lagged behind its potential in growth, and although the EuroLeague has many fans, it has been criticized for problems with stadium infrastructure and unpaid wages to players from some teams.
NBA aims to launch 16-team league in Europe next year
(Seoul = Yonhap News) Reporter Taeyong Choi = The National Basketball Association (NBA) begins full-fledged steps to expand its influence into Europe.
Reuters reported on the 3rd that the NBA will hold a meeting with the European professional basketball league (Euroleague) at Lake Como, a resort in northern Italy, starting on the 5th (Korean time) to discuss integrated league operations.
The EuroLeague is planning its own league expansion, but the NBA is pushing to launch a 16-team league next year.
If the EuroLeague and NBA do not reach an agreement, the competition will begin next year.
The NBA has evaluated that the growth of the European basketball market has lagged behind its potential.
Although the EuroLeague had many fans, it was criticized for problems with stadium infrastructure. In some teams, problems with non-payment of players' wages also occurred.
The NBA plans to attract teams based in major European cities by leveraging its overwhelming marketing capabilities and capital power.
Major cities include London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Berlin, Munich, Istanbul, Madrid, Athens, Barcelona, Manchester, and Lyon.
Now EuroLeague teams are faced with the decision of whether to join the new league or survive on their own.
A Euroleague official said, “This meeting is focused on finding a direction in which both the Euroleague and the NBA can cooperate.”
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
If negotiations between the Euroleague and the NBA break down, a competitive system will begin in Europe starting next year.
Possible · Within months
The NBA will launch a 16-team league by attracting teams based in major cities such as London, Paris, and Rome.
Possible · Within months

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