The world of European basketball is currently witnessing a fascinating development that could redefine its landscape. Gerry Cardinale, the visionary founder of RedBird Capital and owner of Italian football giant AC Milan, is actively engaged in high-level discussions with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver regarding the potential establishment of a new, NBA-affiliated basketball league across Europe. This isn`t merely a casual chat; it`s a serious exploration with Milan positioned as a potential cornerstone city for a new franchise.
The Architect`s Vision: RedBird`s Multi-Sport Synergies
For those familiar with Gerry Cardinale`s strategic playbook, this move comes as no great surprise. RedBird Capital operates on a philosophy of acquiring and developing sports entities with an eye towards synergistic benefits across various disciplines. Cardinale himself articulated this vision in 2022 at a “Invest in Sports” conference, stating, “A property with multiple clubs in different sports is interesting; I believe that through synergies you can grow.” This isn`t just about owning teams; it`s about building a portfolio where insights, commercial opportunities, and operational efficiencies can be shared. Thus, the notion of AC Milan potentially having a basketball “sibling” in the same city, under the same ownership umbrella, aligns perfectly with this ambitious, multi-sport framework. It’s an intriguing prospect: a football powerhouse fostering a basketball counterpart, perhaps sharing more than just a city skyline.
NBA`s Grand European Blueprint
Adam Silver and the NBA are not new to international expansion, but a full-fledged European league represents a significant leap. Reports from outlets like The Athletic indicate that the NBA has already held preliminary meetings with key European clubs, including Real Madrid, in Paris. These discussions are focused on the feasibility and structure of a new league, potentially alternative to the existing EuroLeague. A critical juncture for this plan appears to be 2026, when the current EuroLeague contracts for powerhouses like Real Madrid and Barcelona are set to expire, potentially freeing them to explore new affiliations. The proposed league envisions franchises in major European capitals, with Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, London, Istanbul, and Berlin frequently mentioned as prime candidates. The inclusion of Milan by prominent American sports journalist Bill Simmons, who noted Milan`s “essentially favorable” stance due to RedBird`s ownership, underscores the city`s strategic importance in the NBA`s broader European strategy.
Milan`s Unique Position and the Local Landscape
Milan`s appeal extends beyond just being a fashion and financial capital; it`s a city with a rich sporting heritage. While Olimpia Milano, the city`s established basketball club, has recently renewed its commitment to the EuroLeague for another ten years, RedBird`s involvement signals a potentially different path for a new, NBA-backed entity. The idea isn`t to supplant existing structures but to introduce a new tier of competition and entertainment under the NBA`s globally recognized brand. RedBird`s ownership of AC Milan provides an immediate, high-profile anchor and a ready-made infrastructure for brand building, fan engagement, and strategic operations. The question then becomes one of co-existence, or perhaps, a competitive push that ultimately elevates the sport`s profile across the continent.
High-Stakes Backing and Star Connections
The seriousness of the NBA`s European endeavor is further highlighted by the caliber of its advisors. JP Morgan, a financial titan, has been brought in to guide the project, as revealed by the Financial Times. Furthermore, NBA Commissioner Silver has reportedly met with high-ranking political figures, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, to discuss the viability of an English franchise. This level of financial and governmental engagement signifies a long-term, meticulously planned initiative. Gerry Cardinale`s extensive network also plays a crucial role. His strong relationships within American sports, including ties to the New York Yankees, provide invaluable experience and connections. Notably, basketball legend LeBron James became a passive investor in AC Milan through Main Street Advisors, a fund that supported RedBird`s acquisition. This “LeBron effect” not only adds star power but also illustrates the interconnected, high-stakes world of modern sports investment that Cardinale navigates with apparent ease.
The Road Ahead: A Game of Complexities and Opportunities
While the vision for an NBA European league is grand and the conversations are earnest, the path forward is undeniably complex. Navigating existing league structures, securing suitable venues, building competitive rosters, and establishing new fan bases across diverse cultures will require meticulous planning and significant capital. Yet, the potential rewards are immense: tapping into a vast European market, elevating the global profile of basketball, and creating unprecedented opportunities for players and fans alike. This ambitious undertaking, led by figures like Cardinale and Silver, promises to be one of the most compelling stories in international sports for the foreseeable future. Expect many more chapters to be written in this evolving narrative.
The convergence of American sports acumen and European passion is underway, with Milan at the heart of an audacious vision that could transform professional basketball on a continental scale.