The NBA’s long-discussed expansion plans appear to be moving forward, and multiple league sources say Las Vegas sits at the forefront of the conversation.
Owners are expected to revisit expansion during upcoming Board of Governors meetings, according to one team owner who told Hoops Wire the move is a “no-brainer.” The league is widely believed to be considering two new franchises, with Las Vegas and Seattle viewed as the leading candidates for a 2028-29 launch.
Las Vegas already functions as an unofficial NBA hub. The city hosts the annual Summer League, now a marquee gathering for executives, players, media and fans, and recently staged the championship rounds of the inaugural NBA Cup.
The broader sports landscape in Las Vegas has also changed rapidly. The NFL’s Raiders relocated in 2020, the NHL’s Golden Knights began play in 2017, the WNBA’s Aces moved to town in 2018 and MLB’s Athletics are poised to follow. This influx underscores the city’s growing infrastructure and market appeal.
Financial considerations add further momentum. Expansion fees are projected between $7 billion and $10 billion per team, revenue that would be distributed directly to current franchise owners. At those figures, two new clubs could generate roughly $500 million for each existing owner.
With infrastructure, market growth and significant potential revenue in place, Las Vegas has shifted from a possibility to a probable destination as the NBA edges closer to formal expansion.
Source: Hoops Wire
