NBA Europe: l'Olimpia wavers, RedBird considers a deal with Varese Basketball

There is nothing official at the moment but something is moving. The NBA Europe project is taking more and more shape. As reiterated several times by Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, the idea is to start in 2027. To do that, you need the franchises and a clear and sustainable plan. Exactly what is being sought. In Italy, Milan and Rome are the two cities that should be part of the project.

In reality, more Varese than Milan. According to leaks from multiple sources, RedBird would be willing to do anything to be part of NBA Europe. The fund that controls Milan is trying to figure out if it is possible to join the project by exploiting Olimpia Milano but, at the moment, the white and red club has not taken a clear position, partly because it has an agreement with Euroleague to comply with.

Hence the possibility that Cardinale, RedBird’s point man, could go knocking elsewhere. Specifically to Scola, a key man at Varese Basketball. The white-and-red executive, one of the club’s owners, has always been very connected to the NBA world (he has played in several franchises, including Houston Rockets and Indiana Pacers).

The idea of being able to create a partnership for RedBird would greatly tickle Scola, who has important ambitions for Varese Basketball. In short, in case Olimpia Milano decides not to give their availability, the Argentine from Varese is absolutely ready to step up. Clearly, the final word is up to RedBird.