Barcelona open to joining NBA Europe league

Former NBA star Pau Gasol has voiced support for the NBA‑FIBA project to launch a continental NBA Europe competition, slated to begin in the 2027‑2028 season. The proposed league would feature 12 permanent clubs and four qualification spots, with candidate cities such as Paris, London, Berlin, Madrid, Barcelona, Milan, Rome, Manchester, Munich, Athens and Istanbul.

Gasol said Barcelona is “open to the possibility of an NBA league in Europe” and wants to assess the model, project conditions and realistic implementation before committing. He noted that recent presidential elections temporarily slowed the process but now provide clearer direction. From 1 July, club president Joan Laporta will resume full control of Barcelona, and Gasol, who remains close to the club, will help evaluate its potential entry. The initiative has sparked tension with the EuroLeague, which also seeks participation from clubs like Barcelona.

The development underscores a potential reshaping of European basketball, with the NBA and FIBA seeking to create a new premier competition while existing leagues negotiate their roles.