NBA Europe continues to receive support from figures within the NBA world. Kenny Atkinson, head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and the reigning NBA Coach of the Year, has voiced strong backing for the project, highlighting the sporting and economic opportunities it could create.
Atkinson spoke about the project during the Basketball Without Borders Next Up camp in Istanbul, emphasizing the possibility for NBA organizations to establish closer connections with European players and clubs.
Kenny Atkinson: “NBA Europe will bring us closer to European talent”
“I think that, through NBA Europe and in cooperation with FIBA, we will become even closer to players, particularly European players,” Atkinson said, according to Sozcu.
The Cavaliers coach believes the new competition could allow NBA organizations to evaluate European talent more effectively while also developing closer relationships with clubs across the continent.
“We will probably be able to evaluate players better and establish closer relationships with the clubs here,” he added.
NBA Europe could also create economic growth
Atkinson also believes that the presence of the NBA brand could have a significant impact on the European basketball landscape.
“Having the NBA logo on the league will naturally change certain things for the better. I think it will be great for the players,” he said.
The Cavaliers head coach also sees significant economic opportunities for players under the NBA umbrella.
“Frankly, I believe it will also generate economic growth. Players will have the opportunity to earn more money and receive more opportunities under the NBA umbrella. I do not see any downside to it,” Atkinson concluded.
NBA Europe expected to launch in 2027
NBA Europe is expected to launch in October 2027. According to the source, the competition is reportedly set to feature a semi-open format with 12 permanent franchises.
The project is designed to create a new European competition connected directly to the NBA and developed in cooperation with FIBA.
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