Adam Silver Targets Year-End Decision on Vegas and Seattle Expansion
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NBA commissioner Adam Silver used Wednesday’s post–Board of Governors press conference to outline the league’s timetable on expansion, provide an update on a proposed NBA Europe, and address several policy issues, including anti-tanking measures and the 65-game rule for awards eligibility.
Expansion
Silver said he intends to have clarity by the end of the 2026 calendar year on whether the league will add franchises in Las Vegas and/or Seattle. “We need to know by the end of this calendar year what it is we’re doing,” he told reporters. The commissioner emphasized that the ownership bidding process remains open and transparent, noting that no commitments have been made and inviting interested parties to contact the league’s adviser, PJT Partners.
While expanding to 32 clubs is not guaranteed, Silver acknowledged “enormous interest” in both markets. Some governors have expressed reservations about talent dilution and revenue sharing, but the board unanimously approved continued exploration of the two cities.
NBA Europe
Deputy commissioner Mark Tatum briefed governors on early plans for an NBA-branded European league. No vote was taken. Silver said enthusiasm is high and added that collaborating with the existing EuroLeague would be preferable to competing against it.
Anti-Tanking Measures
Silver announced a special Board of Governors meeting for May to decide on stricter rules aimed at deterring teams from intentionally losing games. “We are going to fix it—full stop,” he said, indicating that incentives for the 2026-27 season will differ significantly from current guidelines.
65-Game Requirement
Despite pushback from media, agents, and the National Basketball Players Association, Silver signaled no immediate plan to repeal or alter the 65-game minimum for postseason awards. He called the rule effective overall, even though Pistons guard Cade Cunningham is expected to miss the threshold by a small margin.
Trail Blazers Sale and Portland Arena Plans
The league still expects Tom Dundon to close on a controlling stake in the Trail Blazers by the previously reported March 31 target date. Silver said a Board of Governors vote on the transaction should occur “in short order” and described Dundon as eager to build a championship team in Portland.
Regarding the club’s long-term future in the city, the commissioner said planned renovations to the Moda Center, rather than a new arena, should be sufficient for a new 20-year lease. He cited conversations with Oregon officials and called Portland “an important market for the NBA.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
