A FIBA official revealed that he is talking to NBA commissioner Adam Silver about working together to create a joint competition for their clubs, something that could end arguments that American league’s champions are not the best in the world because of the mere fact that they are playing only in America.
FIBA secretary general Andreas Zagklis said his office is in ‘serious conversation’ with Silver regarding the staging of a competition that brings together Euro League, NBA teams, as well as other clubs from other countries.
“There is clear interest (by the NBA) and there are ongoing discussions with FIBA,” Zagklis said during his annual, year-end news conference Monday. “We’ve been having and will continue having discussions with … the company that operates the EuroLeague.
“It is something that has been on our radar. We tried to bring everyone together. This was not possible. So our job is to continue having serious conversations with our partners at the NBA.”
Zagklis said the talks actually started years ago and Adam Silver will be in Europe in the next few months to elevate the discussions.
Adjustments Adam Silver needs to make for joint league
The FIBA official expressed the intention to combine forces with the American counterpart as he thinks it will boost their market reach.
The main hurdle though is the schedule. How are they going to overcome that?
First thought comes to mind about this plan is it might be similar to that of football’s prestigious UEFA Champions League wherein clubs spend multiple months to determine the best European team.
That is not the case though.
Zagklis said the NBA is already considering adjusting its schedule although it is mainly to accommodate the schedule of the 2028 Olympics to be held in Los Angeles.
He said the competition between NBA and other teams from the world will be a short one and that NBA is optimistic they will arrive to a solution.
“The conversation with the NBA is there. I do not expect a major adjustment to their schedule. But if it is a question of one or two or three days, we’ve always been collaborating well and I think we will find a solution.”
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