Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 28) — There is a possibility for an NBA-governed tournament for teams within the Asian region, deputy commissioner Mark Tatum said on Friday.
“I like the development here of basketball at the club level — very competitive teams,” Tatum told CNN Philippines’ The Final Word.
“We are always talking to our partner FIBA about potential opportunities to expand our role in the global space, particularly around club competitions,” he added.
Tatum, however, noted that there are enough competitive regional leagues in the region already, and there may be “less of a need” for the NBA to step in.
“This is something we continue to think about, look at and talk to our partners like FIBA,” the deputy commissioner added.
Tatum led the launch of the first NBA games in Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL). He said he created the league as there were no club competitions in the African continent.
International regional tournaments within Asian countries include the FIBA Asia Cup, the ASEAN Basketball League, and the East Asia Super League.
