Adam Silver's Right-Hand Man: NBA Europe Set for 2027 Launch, with or Without EuroLeague Deal

NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum spoke ahead of the new season's opening tip-off, addressing the league's ambitious European expansion. He stated that discussions with EuroLeague remain ongoing, but the NBA's project on the Old Continent will launch in 2027 regardless of whether an agreement is reached with Europe's premier competition.

"We have a lot of work ahead of us, but we are making rapid progress and have no intention of slowing down. We are in the process of finalizing agreements. Talks with EuroLeague continue, but the NBA has its own plan. This is a historic moment, and we need to get it right," said Adam Silver's right-hand man.

He also weighed in on EuroLeague's financial roadmap for the coming years. "That doesn't impact our project. Our business model will allow clubs to achieve profitability much faster. I've read reports indicating that several EuroLeague teams are not financially sustainable. Under our model, permanent franchise teams will be turning a profit by year three," he added.

"In 1992, when the Dream Team took the court in Barcelona, there were 30 international players in the NBA. Today, that number stands at 125. That team inspired the likes of Tony Parker and Pau Gasol, who went on to inspire future generations," Tatum concluded.