Tony Parker: “We either reach an agreement or the NBA comes alone”

By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne president Tony Parker updated the picture of ongoing talks between officials of the NBA and Euroleague Basketball.

Parker, 42, has been vocal about a potential expansion of the league based in North America, wishing to enter ASVEL in a potential European project of the NBA. In addition to confirming his support, he also went into additional details.

“The NBA has contacted me and I am taking part in the discussions,” he mentioned in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe on Wednesday, referring to clauses limiting room for further public comments on the topic.

A four-time NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs, Parker has emerged as a bridge in discussions, behind a lasting relationship with the NBA and his current status as team president of a Turkish Airlines EuroLeague club.

“I had a meeting with Adam Silver and Mark Tatum,” he confirmed extending talks with the commissioner and deputy commissioner of the NBA, leading into the latest contact with Euroleague Basketball, “The idea was to talk about European basketball and bring everyone back to the table, the NBA, EuroLeague, and FIBA.”

“It is clear. We either reach an agreement or the NBA comes alone. We need to focus on a merger or a partnership,” Parker shared his view on possible outcomes.

A groundbreaking agreement between involved parties would generate additional marketing value for clubs based in the Old Continent, according to the ASVEL president.

“We would like to participate, but the goal is to join forces to create something never seen before while ensuring that no historic European club is left behind,” Parker also relayed intentions to respect the ecosystem in place.

Over recent months, the NBA confirmed possible plans to expand the league into Europe. However, the exact plan remains unclear, presumably in connection to ongoing talks with stakeholders, including Euroleague Basketball.

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