The National Basketball Association (NBA) Board of Governors voted unanimously on Wednesday to explore the possibility of adding expansion teams in Las Vegas and Seattle. The decision marks the league's first formal step toward expansion since 2004, when the Charlotte Bobcats joined. Bids for the new franchises are expected to range between $7 billion and $10 billion each, with the teams potentially debuting in the 2028-29 season.
Commissioner Adam Silver stated in a release, "Today's vote reflects our Board's interest in exploring potential expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle — two markets with a long history of support for NBA basketball." The vote does not guarantee approval but allows the league to formally evaluate bids from interested parties.
Background and Context
Seattle previously hosted the SuperSonics from 1967 to 2008, when the team relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder. The city has since expressed strong interest in reclaiming an NBA franchise. Las Vegas, meanwhile, has never had an NBA team but has grown as a major sports market, hosting the NHL's Golden Knights and the NFL's Raiders, with MLB's Athletics set to move there in 2028.
Potential Conference Realignment
If the expansion proceeds, the NBA would grow to 32 teams, with both new franchises likely joining the Western Conference. To balance the conferences at 16 teams each, executives anticipate that either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Memphis Grizzlies would shift to the Eastern Conference.
Impact on Existing Teams
The Toronto Raptors, currently the only Canadian team in the NBA, could see changes in scheduling and playoff dynamics if the league expands. The Raptors would also likely lose a player in the expansion draft, though ownership stands to benefit financially from the new franchises.
Bidding Process and Timeline
The NBA will now examine bids from Las Vegas and Seattle over the coming months, with a final decision expected in the near future. The league has emphasized that expansion is a matter of "when, not if," signaling strong confidence in the process.
LeBron James' Involvement
LeBron James, who previously expressed interest in owning a team in Las Vegas, has since removed himself from the bidding process. He stated in 2023, "It's a sports town. Hopefully I can bring my franchise here someday."