A new era in global basketball is about to begin, and all eyes are on Project B, an innovative league that promises to attract NBA stars, with the involvement of Maverick Carter, one of LeBron James’ closest associates. This ambitious project aims not only to extend the careers of renowned players but also to challenge the dominance of the NBA by creating a viable alternative for athletes.
Grady Burnett, one of the co-founders of Project B, revealed in statements to The Athletic that the new league is set to launch next fall, with a special focus on extending the careers of well-known athletes. Carter, who has a long-standing relationship with LeBron James, will take on an advisory role, although a spokesperson confirmed that he does not hold a formal position within the league. This nuance raises questions about the real impact Carter may have on the operations of the new organization.
In addition to Carter, Project B has the support of Misko Raznatovic, an influential European NBA agent who represents stars like Nikola Jokic. The connection between Raznatovic and Carter was widely reported when both were seen on a boat with LeBron James during the summer, where, according to sources, they discussed the new league. This connection suggests that Project B is being shaped by some of the most influential minds in basketball.
The women’s league of Project B has already taken its first steps, attracting renowned players from the WNBA, such as Alyssa Thomas and Jonquel Jones, offering high salaries and attractive conditions. The plan is for the competition to take place in seven cities around the world, including locations in Asia, Europe, and South America, between November 2026 and April 2027, with the games being broadcast on YouTube, thereby increasing the accessibility and visibility of the event.
Regarding the men’s league, Burnett indicated that the model will be similar to that of the women’s version, with the goal of recruiting talent from the NBA and Europe. “We have a plan that has already worked for the women’s side, and we are applying the same strategy for the men’s,” he stated. The expectation is that players will not only be attracted by the competition but will also have an equity stake in the league, which could be a significant draw.
When asked about the possibility of competing directly with the NBA, Burnett did not shy away. The men’s league is scheduled to coincide with the NBA season, which could force players to make tough decisions between the two leagues. This is particularly relevant, as NBA players are currently prohibited from playing in other competitions, unlike what happens with the WNBA.
And what about the future of LeBron James? Burnett did not commit, stating that there have not yet been any direct conversations with the star, who will become a free agent at the end of the current NBA season. “We are focused on building the foundations and will have those conversations with the right players at the right time,” Burnett said. Thus, while Project B prepares to challenge the status quo, LeBron James’s future in the NBA remains uncertain, leaving fans and analysts in anticipation.
Project B could be the change that basketball needs, and with figures like Maverick Carter and Misko Raznatovic leading the way, the league is about to spark a revolution in the sport. The basketball world is watching closely – what comes next could redefine the landscape of the sport forever.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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