NBA Europe Gains Momentum: Milan and Rome Set to Join New League

The NBA’s expansion into Europe is rapidly progressing, with plans for a new top-tier continental league gaining significant traction. Italian Basketball Federation (FIP) President Gianni Petrucci has confirmed that teams from Milan and Rome are poised to participate in the NBA Europe project.

Formal Agreement Imminent

The NBA-FIBA agreement, which underpins the creation of NBA Europe, has already been finalized and is expected to be officially signed by the end of March. This confirmation comes from FIBA Europe President Jorge Garbajosa, as relayed by Petrucci.

This NBA-FIBA agreement has already been sanctioned at the press conference. It should be signed in the next few days of March. Garbajosa, when he came to Turin, confirmed that the agreement exists. Gianni Petrucci, President of the Italian Basketball Federation

Italian Cities at the Forefront

The inclusion of Milan and Rome represents a major step forward for the project. Teams from both cities will compete under the NBA banner while continuing to participate in the Italian championship and making their players available for national team commitments.

This agreement will bring enthusiasm, two teams like Roma and Milan will have the NBA acronym, but will continue to play in the Italian championship. So I personally root for this reality. Gianni Petrucci, President of the Italian Basketball Federation

Potential Ownership Interest

Speculation is mounting regarding potential ownership involvement in Milan. Gerry Cardinale, president of Milan, has been linked to a possible purchase of Olimpia Milano, particularly in light of the NBA Europe initiative. Inter Milan is also reportedly exploring involvement.

I read this from the newspaper. But I say that Inter are also interested. From what I had known, intuition, and more. Milan was present in London with Cardinale and also with Ibrahimovic. And I know that they also spoke on stage. So this is a reality. Gianni Petrucci, President of the Italian Basketball Federation

Looking Ahead

The NBA Europe project promises to bring a new level of excitement to European basketball, blending the prestige of the NBA with the established competition of the Italian league. The formal signing of the agreement in March will mark a pivotal moment in the league’s development.

Stay tuned to 247sports.news for further updates on the NBA Europe project as it unfolds.