In recent years, we’ve seen the emergence of new leagues trying to make their mark in the basketball world. Examples like BIG3 and the Unrivaled league have managed to attract attention, but their numbers still fall far short of the NBA, which remains the undisputed giant of the sport. While BIG3 reported revenues of $13.5 million in 2024, Unrivaled reached a valuation of $340 million in 2025. Even so, neither comes close to the global power of the league led by Adam Silver.
However, the story might be about to change. A group of investors, advised by Maverick Carter, is seeking to raise around $5 billion to launch an international basketball league capable of directly competing with the NBA.
Is LeBron James involved in the new basketball league?
The detail that sparked the rumors is that Carter is a partner and close friend of LeBron James, with whom he has shared a relationship since adolescence and multiple business ventures. According to ESPN journalist Brian Windhorst, James is among the initial investors in this ambitious proposal.
The information became public after LeBron was seen alongside Carter and Miko Ranatovi, the influential agent of Nikola Jokic. According to statements made by Ranatovi on a Serbian podcast, the plan is to create a league with a strong European focus, featuring twelve teams (six men’s and six women’s) that would play in eight cities around the world, similar to the Formula 1 model.
An international league backed by billions
The project not only has Carter’s advisory and LeBron’s investment, but also the backing of major sovereign funds and private capital, such as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the government of Singapore, UBS, and firms like SC Holdings. Notable names also include Geoff Prentice, co-founder of Skype, and Grady Burnett, former Facebook executive.
The idea is clear: to build a global competition that combines sports entertainment and commercial appeal, capable of challenging the NBA with an innovative model.
Could LeBron James play in this league?
The big question is whether James, beyond being an investor, will take part on the court. At 40 years old, the Lakers forward continues to compete at the highest level and, according to Windhorst, shows no signs of nearing retirement. LeBron himself has admitted that he still has seasons left in the tank, although he avoids confirming how long he will remain active.
For now, it’s all speculation, but the possibility of seeing King James wearing a uniform from this new international league doesn’t seem far-fetched. The truth is, his mere presence-whether as a player or investor-could turn the project into a true sports and media phenomenon.
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