By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The NBA’s plan to launch a 16-team European league by October 2027 is attracting more than just corporate investors, but several of the league’s biggest stars as well. Following a matchup against the Toronto Raptors in Scotiabank Arena on Friday, Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker became the latest superstar to publicly voice his interest in joining the ownership ranks of the burgeoning project.
Speaking with Toni Canyameras of Mundo Deportivo, 29-year-old Booker expressed a deep personal affinity for the continent and a professional desire to transition into an ownership role.
“Expanding the game and creating another league over there would be a beautiful thing,” he stated. “That’s a dream of mine to own a sports team in any league. So, I hope one day it will happen.”
While he praised Barcelona and expressed interest in Madrid and Greece, he floated a more relaxed destination: “Maybe in Spain, maybe Marbella or something. I don’t know. Greece. You tell me…”
“I haven’t been in Madrid yet, but I heard it’s nice, though. I’ve been to Barcelona. I had a great time there,” he added.
🏀 Interesting stuff from Devin Booker about possible future plans in NBA Europe 👀:
🇪🇺 “Maybe coach. I don’t know about play”
💰 “¿If I’m interested in investing in a NBA Europe franchise? Yeah, for sure”
☀ “I’ve been to Barcelona. I had a great time” pic.twitter.com/ijGU8D80Tq
— Toni Canyameras (@Canyameridis71) March 14, 2026
Booker joins an elite group of active players who are already positioning themselves for the 2027 rollout. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has signaled a historic shift in policy, indicating that active players may be permitted to hold equity in these international franchises. Luka Doncic is reportedly part of an investor group led by Donnie Nelson targeting a franchise in Rome, while Kevin Durant is already a minority stakeholder in Paris Saint-Germain and is expected to consult on their bid for a permanent Paris-based slot. Giannis Antetokounmpo has also stated he is “100%” interested in owning a team.
The proposed league, widely labeled as NBA Europe, is designed to bridge the gap between FIBA’s domestic structures and the NBA’s commercial scale. The format includes 12 permanent franchises in major hubs, including London, Paris, Madrid, and Istanbul, and four qualification spots earned via performance in the Basketball Champions League and domestic leagues.
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