EuroLeague Expands to 20 Teams — Dubai Joins as First Non-European Club

EuroLeague Enters a New Era With 20 Teams

The EuroLeague is set for its biggest transformation in years. Beginning with the 2025–26 season, the league expands from 18 to 20 teams, adding Dubai Basketball as its first non-European club.
This marks a historic milestone for the competition and signals EuroLeague’s ambition to evolve into a truly global brand.

League CEO Paulius Motiejūnas confirmed the news during a press conference in Barcelona. “The future of EuroLeague is international,” he said. “This expansion is about opportunity, growth, and connecting basketball fans worldwide.”

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Dubai’s Entry and What It Means

A Landmark Decision

Dubai Basketball’s inclusion represents a bold step into new territory. The team will play home games in a newly built, 17,000-seat arena designed to host both domestic and international competitions.

This decision also reflects EuroLeague’s growing commercial strategy. Dubai’s financial backing and world-class facilities make it an ideal partner for expansion beyond Europe’s borders.

“Dubai’s entry is not only about sport but also about culture and innovation,” Motiejūnas added. “It’s a bridge between continents.”

Mixed Reactions From Fans

Reactions across Europe have been divided. Traditionalists argue that the EuroLeague should remain a purely European competition. However, many fans see this move as a necessary step toward modernization and global relevance.

Social media buzzed with debate after the announcement, with some calling it “the NBA-ization of Europe” — a nod to the league’s growing commercial ambition.

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New Format and Competition Structure

Longer Season and Play-In Tournament

The expanded 20-team format means each team will now play 38 regular-season games. To keep competition fierce, EuroLeague will introduce a play-in tournament similar to the NBA system.
Teams ranked 7th to 10th will battle for the final playoff spots, ensuring higher stakes and more excitement.

This change not only increases fan engagement but also gives mid-table teams a fighting chance deep into the season.

Financial and Media Growth

With Dubai’s arrival, EuroLeague gains access to new sponsorship opportunities, broadcast deals, and markets in the Middle East and Asia.
The league is also expanding its digital ecosystem — introducing AI-powered game summaries, Arabic-language content, and region-specific broadcasts for the first time.

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Impact on European Clubs

Tougher Competition Ahead

The addition of new teams will make the playoff race even tighter. Established clubs like Real Madrid, Fenerbahçe, and Olympiacos will face longer schedules and more travel.
Coaches are already preparing for the physical and tactical challenges that come with 20 teams competing at the highest level.

Opportunities for Growth

On the other hand, smaller clubs see the expansion as a chance to attract investors and improve infrastructure. The global spotlight could help raise budgets and standards across the continent.

“This isn’t just an expansion — it’s evolution,” said Zalgiris Kaunas GM Paulius Jankūnas. “European basketball is ready for the next step.”

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Globalization and the Future of EuroLeague

EuroLeague’s 2025 expansion mirrors a broader global sports trend. Like the NBA, the league is looking beyond geography to create a diverse, interconnected basketball market.
Analysts believe more non-European teams — particularly from Asia — could join in the next decade if this experiment succeeds.

The inclusion of Dubai opens doors to untapped fanbases and strategic partnerships that could redefine how the sport operates across continents.

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Looking Ahead

The 2025–26 season begins this October, featuring a mix of elite veterans, rising stars, and ambitious newcomers. Fans can expect more games, global broadcasts, and thrilling rivalries.

As EuroLeague enters its most global season ever, the message is clear — basketball knows no borders. With Dubai on board, the league takes another giant leap toward becoming the world’s second-most influential basketball competition, right after the NBA.