By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
As a genuine representative of the sport’s global impact, Serge Ibaka expressed strong enthusiasm for Montreal’s potential to host a future NBA franchise, stating that the city ‘deserves a team’.
Speaking at an event promoting the NBA Finals 2026 between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, the 2019 champion with the lone Canadian franchise of the league, the Toronto Raptors, praised the city’s vibrant atmosphere. “The way things are here, it’s a beautiful city. I feel people love sport in general here,” he said.
As a bilingual Congolese-Spanish athlete, Ibaka noted that playing in a francophone market would have been an incredible experience during his 14-year NBA career. “I’m sure it would be amazing,” he added, reflecting on the local culture.
While the 36-year-old center remains a beloved fan favorite in Canada, the league’s immediate expansion landscape looks elsewhere. Commissioner Adam Silver previously indicated hopes to finalize decisions regarding new franchises for Seattle and Las Vegas before the end of the calendar year.
Although the meteoric rise of French superstar Victor Wembanyama could eventually make a francophone market like Montreal highly attractive to league executives, there are currently no immediate plans to expand beyond the two targeted American cities.
Meanwhile, the NBA is heavily prioritizing its international footprint, with active plans to launch an independent league in Europe by the end of 2027.
Ibaka, who has not officially announced his retirement, is currently a free agent. He most recently played for Real Madrid for the 2024-25 season, following a successful 2023-24 stint with FC Bayern Munich. Besides his legendary career between the NBA and Europe, he has captured an Olympic silver medal and a EuroBasket gold medal with Spain.
Make 
Your Preferred Basketball Source.
Add Eurohoops to Google