EuroLeague teams reportedly reject initial offer to merge with NBA Europe: 'It didn't sit well'

The NBA and EuroLeague have decided not to merge into a single European basketball entity as initially proposed. Representatives from the two leagues met in Italy to discuss the merger, with 13 of the 20 EuroLeague clubs present. However, the proposal was rejected by a supermajority of owners, including teams from Barcelona, Fenerbahce, and Olympiacos.

EuroLeague officials found the NBA's offer "colonialist" and "power play," as it disregarded their existing investments and franchises. The NBA aims to launch a 16-team league in Europe by 2027, with potential expansion to 24 teams by 2027-28. The initial proposal included a condition that the EuroLeague cease its planned expansion, which the owners strongly opposed.

EuroLeague owners valued the league at over $3 billion, while the NBA's offer fell far short of that figure. Despite the rejection, some EuroLeague teams expressed interest in joining NBA Europe. However, negotiations between the two sides are expected to continue, and a combined venture has not been established for now.