What happens when LeBron James’ right-hand man starts advising a league that could rival the NBA? It raises a lot of questions. Maverick Carter, James’s longtime business manager, is now backing a $5 billion global league project. According to ESPN, the plan involves six men’s and six women’s teams playing across the globe. When asked about James’ role, insiders were quick to point out, “Sources told ESPN that LeBron James is not involved in the efforts.” Still, it’s hard to ignore Carter’s close ties to the Lakers star.
The league isn’t just aiming to be flashy, it means business and it wants to carve it’s own place. Backed by private equity groups, it hopes to attract sovereign wealth funds too. The NBA hasn’t seen a real 5-on-5 rival since it absorbed the ABA in the 1970s. So why now? Possibly because the WNBA’s rival league “Unrivaled” just drew in major stars. While LeBron’s name isn’t officially attached, Carter’s presence alone gives the project power. Could this be a test run for LeBron’s post-retirement ownership goals? Well, the NBA commissioner isn’t willing to back down easily.
So what does Adam Silver do as a potential rival starts rearing its head? He shows that he is ready to run the defense. In Paris, he met with Real Madrid, Luka Doncic’s former team, hoping to secure their spot in a new NBA Europe league. This move isn’t random. Real Madrid’s EuroLeague license expires in 2026. If they jump ship, others could follow. “Real Madrid is one of those clubs with a guaranteed spot,” the report explains, but cracks are forming. With deep soccer money and global appeal, the club could be Silver’s crown jewel.
[US, Mexico, & Canada customers only] Jan 23, 2025; Paris, FRANCE; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks before the Paris Games 2025 NBA basketball game between the San Antonio Spurs and Indiana Pacers at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephanie Lecocq/Reuters via Imagn Images
But Silver isn’t stopping there. He’s spoken with London’s leaders, Qatari investors, and teams like Alba Berlin, who already exited the EuroLeague. NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum summed it up, saying Berlin believes in a “revamped top-tier league in Europe.” The goal? Sixteen teams, major cities, and a long-term plan. While EuroLeague’s CEO argues, “There’s a lot of confusion,” Silver seems more focused than ever. The battle for basketball’s future is already underway.
(This is a developing story)
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