The NBA’s ambitious project to establish a professional league in Europe has been pushed back by 12 months, with the inaugural season now slated for 2028. This venture, described as one of the largest startup competitions in sports history, involves a projected $10 billion investment over a 10-year period. The league structure is designed to include 12 permanent franchises, with an additional four temporary spots to be filled through a pre-qualifying tournament starting next year.

Interest in the franchise opportunities has reportedly been high. According to reports, the NBA has received multiple bids for the 12 permanent slots that have exceeded initial financial expectations. Valuation estimates for these franchises vary significantly based on location, with the London-based franchise expected to command a price point ranging from $500 million to over $1 billion. While the project has attracted significant attention from existing football clubs and investors, the delay suggests the organization is taking additional time to finalize the logistical and competitive framework required for such a large-scale international expansion.