The NBA has officially taken a major step toward expansion and Las Vegas is at the center of it. All 30 NBA owners have unanimously approved a plan to explore expansion bids in Las Vegas and Seattle, setting the stage for what could become the league’s most significant growth move in decades.
The vote allows the NBA to begin formally evaluating ownership groups, arenas, and financial bids for two new franchises. According to reports, expansion fees are expected to land between $7 billion and $10 billion per team, reflecting the massive surge in NBA franchise valuations.
Adam Silver made it clear this is just the beginning. “Today’s vote reflects our Board’s interest in exploring potential expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle,” Silver said. “We look forward to taking this next step and engaging with interested parties.” League insiders have increasingly described expansion as inevitable a matter of timing, not possibility.
Target Timeline: 2028-29 Season
The NBA is aiming for both expansion teams to begin play in the 2028-29 season, which would officially bring the league to 32 franchises.
Key next steps include:
- Evaluating ownership bids
- Reviewing arena infrastructure
- Assessing long-term economic impact
Investment firm PJT Partners has been brought in to guide the process. A final vote to approve expansion could come later this year, requiring at least 23 of 30 owners to pass.
Las Vegas: The Sports Capital Rise Continues
Las Vegas has rapidly transformed into one of the most important sports markets in North America.
Recent additions include:
- Las Vegas Raiders (relocated in 2020)
- Vegas Golden Knights (2017 expansion)
- Las Vegas Aces (since 2018, multiple champions)
Major League Baseball is also on the way, with the Oakland Athletics planning a move to Las Vegas by 2028. An NBA team would complete the city’s transformation into a four-major-sport powerhouse.
Seattle: A Franchise Ready to Return
Seattle’s case is rooted in history and unfinished business. The Seattle SuperSonics left in 2008, relocating to become the Oklahoma City Thunder after arena disputes. Now, with a renovated Climate Pledge Arena and strong fan demand, the city is widely viewed as a lock for expansion. This isn’t just expansion it’s restoration.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
