Nationwide — NBA icon LeBron James is reportedly involved in plans to create a global basketball league that could compete with the NBA. The proposed league would feature teams from around the world while giving players a chance to own a stake in the organization.
Reports said James’ longtime business manager, Maverick Carter, was exploring plans to raise about $5 billion from private equity groups to create the international league. The project was designed as a direct competitor to the NBA.
According to ESPN, James had previously shown interest in owning an NBA team, especially in Las Vegas. While early reports said he was not involved when the league idea first emerged, later discussions suggested he may have become part of the plans, especially after his departure from the Lakers.
Sources said James, Carter, and European basketball agent Miško Ražnatović met in France to discuss the potential league. Ražnatović, who represents Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić, later fueled speculation by sharing a post about upcoming “big plans.”
The proposed league would feature six men’s teams and six women’s teams traveling across eight cities worldwide. One of its main differences from existing leagues would be allowing players to receive ownership shares in the organization.
Players who join the league would reportedly need to commit full-time and would not be allowed to compete in the NBA. The model follows a growing trend among newer sports leagues that give athletes a direct financial stake in the businesses they represent.