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The NBA is seeking entry fees ranging from $500 million to $1 billion from clubs interested in joining its proposed Europe-based league, according to a report from Sports Business Journal.

Following recent Board of Governors meetings in Las Vegas, one team governor described NBA Europe as a “very high priority” for the league. However, sources told SBJ that the NBA is prepared to abandon the project if franchise valuations fall short of its expectations.

The league’s financial target underscores its intent to create a premium product. One source familiar with the initiative said only top-tier football organizations like FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester City could meet the financial bar.

The NBA believes European franchises currently lack commercial efficiency and sees untapped revenue potential. Officials hope new or renovated arenas with luxury amenities can drive revenue growth and justify the high entry fees.

Despite the league’s confidence, not all stakeholders are convinced. An official from a EuroLeague club dismissed the proposed $500 million valuation as unrealistic, raising concerns that existing teams could be priced out.

Talks between FIBA, the NBA, and EuroLeague teams intensified recently. A joint meeting was held in Geneva three months ago and was the most inclusive to date, with every EuroLeague A-license team participating except CSKA Moscow.

The closed-door summit focused on calendar coordination, international player movement, and the structure of the prospective league. Representatives from FIBA, NBA Europe, and marketing partner IMG were present, alongside high-ranking EuroLeague officials.

Though the tone was broadly constructive, the NBA’s proposed financial demands sparked concern among several club executives.

FIBA and the NBA first announced their intent to launch a European men’s league in March, aiming to begin competition by the 2026–27 season. The plan combines permanent franchises with qualification spots, mimicking the NBA’s structure while preserving some competitive access.

Still, EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejunas has urged collaboration over competition. In an interview with The Athletic, he emphasized EuroLeague’s 25-year history and suggested the NBA’s involvement could be better used to strengthen the existing structure.

Motiejunas acknowledged the NBA’s commercial appeal and said discussions would continue in September. He noted the potential for joint ventures in media rights and sponsorship if both parties align strategically.

The outcome of these negotiations could reshape the future of European basketball. Whether the NBA’s financial terms prove feasible will likely determine whether NBA Europe moves forward — or remains an unrealized vision.