The NBA Board of Governors voted to explore expansion into Las Vegas and Seattle, signaling serious interest in adding two new franchises. Commissioner Adam Silver said both markets have deep historical support for basketball.
Seattle lost the SuperSonics in 2008 after failing to secure a new arena. Las Vegas, home to NFL and NHL teams, has never hosted an NBA franchise.
Bids are expected to reach $7 billion to $10 billion per team. If approved, both teams could begin play in the 2028-29 season - the league’s largest expansion since 2004.
To balance conferences, either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Memphis Grizzlies may shift to the Eastern Conference.