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Mark Tatum addressed global media as the NBA prepares for its forthcoming All-Star Game. He also shared additional insights about the league’s initiatives in Europe in response to a query from Eurohoops.
The NBA’s deputy commissioner stated, “Nothing is finalized” concerning the rumors suggesting that Eastern Europe—particularly the basketball strongholds of Greece, Turkey, and Serbia—is excluded from the NBA’s strategy, a claim he refuted.
Tatum elaborated, “We recently held productive discussions in Paris with various stakeholders, and we are actively investigating opportunities in Europe. Together with FIBA, we aim to promote the growth of the sport.” He further emphasized, “We recognize the enthusiasm of fans in markets such as Greece, Turkey, and Serbia, and we are assessing the potential there. Thus, I must clarify that the assertion ‘Whatever we do does not involve Eastern Europe’ is incorrect.”
While Western Europe remains a significant focus due to its relatively untapped basketball market, the NBA is dedicated to all avenues that can enhance its efforts and elevate basketball’s status in the European sports landscape. Tatum noted, “Clearly, basketball ranks as the second most popular sport in Europe, yet it doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves.”
This sentiment is underscored by the rising fame of Victor Wembanyama. Tatum acknowledged, “Wembanyama is currently the second most-watched player,” and he also highlighted Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, and the global buzz generated by Luka Doncic’s recent trade.
Tatum confirmed not only that the recent games held in Paris were a tremendous success, but also that the NBA is exploring partnerships with cities like London, Manchester, and Berlin for next year, including a potential return to Paris. “We’re planning to return to Europe, and we’re considering hosting two games across different cities,” he explained.
He also noted that the US vs. World format in the All-Star Game is already somewhat in play: “I found it notable that six of the players Charles drafted were international.”
Lastly, the NBA’s global presence continues to expand with a new agreement with Singapore and a new initiative involving the emerging Japanese professional league. As Tatum mentioned, “We announced a strategic partnership with the Japanese B-League. The popularity of basketball is surging in Japan, as demonstrated by the interest in the NBA, especially with players like Rui Hachimura and Yuki Kawamura.”
