What happened: Buss Sports Capital, the investment firm founded by Joey and Jesse Buss, is pursuing ownership of an NBA Europe franchise, according to sources cited by The Athletic's Dan Woike. Rome has emerged as a candidate market alongside London and Manchester.

Why it matters: The report signals early-stage interest from Lakers-connected ownership figures in the league's NBA Europe expansion effort, which remains in its planning phases. A Rome-based franchise would mark one of several potential entry points as ownership groups begin taking shape across multiple cities.

What to watch: Watch for further reporting on which markets the league formally advances as NBA Europe ownership talks progress.