An expansion is incoming. Yes, expansion teams are definitely on the way. But what if even more teams are added, that too in Europe? Commissioner Adam Silver seems to have expressed his desire for the NBA to go beyond its current U.S. borders. You heard it right. There are ongoing discussions about taking steps toward Europe. Does this mean that Jayson Tatum and the Celtics might finally settle the “World Champion” debate?

Remember when the Cs declared themselves the “World Champion Boston” on X after winning their 18th championship trophy last season? Well, that statement didn’t sit well with the head coach of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, Ergin Ataman, who had just won the EuroLeague title. Taking offense to the claim, Ataman stated in an interview with Rafine TV, “If you (Celtics) want to get the world champion title, come and beat us, the EuroLeague champion. If you are so confident, I say come and beat us in OAKA.”

Naturally, the comment reached the ears of Boston star Jayson Tatum. When asked about the potential matchup, he shrugged it off, thinking it was unlikely to happen. “I don’t think it’s going to happen, and I guess it’s a super competitive format,” JT said. “I guess it’s fun to talk about and debate about, but I doubt it’s going to happen anytime soon.” Maybe not anymore thanks to Adam Silver.

The FIBA president recently revealed the possibilities to MARCA. In the report, translated by Basket News, Jorge Garbajosa confirmed Adam Silver’s plans, which could create a stir in Europe.

Adam Silver’s expansion plan could escalate tensions in Europe

Though the exact plan or format isn’t clear yet, one thing is for sure, something explosive is about to happen when the American and European sides come face to face. FIBA president Garbajosa affirmed, “I’m convinced that there’s a reality because Mr. Silver doesn’t talk for the sake of talking.” Of course, Adam Silver wouldn’t say anything lightly unless he already has a plan in mind. “He said it because it’s true. They believe that there’s a clear opportunity in Europe,” Garbajosa added.

He acknowledged that there are quality teams in Europe, like Real Madrid, Panathinaikos, and Fenerbahce, that deserve more attention. However, due to less commercialization of the sport on the continent compared to the NBA, it’s not receiving the hype it truly deserves.

“The NBA has detected a weakness and has decided to come,” Garbajosa highlighted. So, Silver and his team are expected to visit to extend the talks. “We don’t know how or when this will happen, but it’s coming,” the 47-year-old said. He also proudly added that whatever the NBA does in Europe will be in collaboration with FIBA. However, things are not as easy as it looks.

There are existing issues between FIBA and the EuroLeague, as players often face conflicts with national team duties overlapping with their club schedules, forcing them to choose one side.

Garbajosa had something to say about that as well. “I think that 13 clubs [EuroLeague shareholders] cannot decide the fate of 600 European clubs.” He further added, “A better alignment of interests will benefit everyone involved. There are still commercial opportunities in Europe that remain untapped, and we must work together to develop basketball wherever it exists.”

Not only that, but he left it up to the EuroLeague to decide whether they want to get on board with it. The EuroLeague could also benefit from multiple opportunities and an increase in its viewership if Silver and the NBA get involved.

Adam Silver hasn’t spoken to the media about the upcoming plans. But the commissioner will surely not disappoint. So, you’ll need to hold your horses until that happens.