The National Basketball Association (NBA) is reportedly progressing towards the potential addition of teams in Seattle and Las Vegas. This development is anticipated to be discussed by the league's Board of Governors next week, as the topic of expansion has been prevalent for some time. According to two individuals with knowledge of the situation, a vote is set to take place regarding whether to proceed with these two cities as the primary targets for expansion.
The individuals chose to remain anonymous, as the details surrounding the vote were not publicly disclosed. To move forward with the expansion, a three-fourths majority is required, meaning 23 out of the 30 team governors must approve the motion. In addition to the expansion discussions, team owners are expected to receive updates on the NBA’s collaboration with FIBA regarding plans for a new league in Europe.
ESPN was the first to report on the scheduled vote. The inclusion of expansion on the agenda was anticipated, as the Board of Governors convenes only a handful of times each year. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has repeatedly stated that a decision regarding the addition of one or two new franchises is expected by the end of 2026. During remarks in December while attending the NBA Cup final in Las Vegas, Silver reiterated, “Not a secret, we’re looking at this market in Las Vegas. We are looking at Seattle.” He also emphasized the need to be cautious about “teasing these markets,” acknowledging the ongoing discussions about expansion.
As the NBA contemplates expansion, there are numerous factors to consider. One significant aspect is the anticipated expansion fee for new franchises, which is expected to be in the billions. Some league insiders suggest that the fee could exceed $6 billion. Additionally, owners are interested in understanding how the addition of teams could affect the on-court product, including the potential dilution of talent and the implications of selling league equity.
Last July, Adam Silver mentioned that the league's owners sought an “in-depth analysis” regarding the ramifications of expansion, including what it would mean for the existing competitive structure. If both Las Vegas and Seattle are added, it is believed that an existing Western Conference team would need to transition to the Eastern Conference to maintain a balanced league structure with two 16-team conferences. The most likely candidates to shift from the Western Conference to the Eastern Conference are the Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Pelicans.
Seattle previously had an NBA team, the SuperSonics, which relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. Las Vegas has long expressed interest in acquiring a franchise, with Basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson frequently mentioned as a potential owner if a team is granted to the city. This growing momentum towards expansion underscores the NBA's commitment to exploring new markets and the future development of the league.
