The NBA board of governors has formally initiated the process of evaluating league expansion, instructing the league office to conduct a comprehensive analysis during a Tuesday meeting in Las Vegas. This marks the first official discussion among team owners on adding new franchises, with Las Vegas and Seattle emerging as the primary contenders.
Key Takeaways
- NBA begins formal expansion study, with Las Vegas and Seattle as leading candidate cities
- The research has no time frame, but the NBA Commissioner mentioned Las Vegas’ links to recent basketball events like the NBA Cup
- Major sports expansion in Las Vegas continues with Clark County approving a tax district to help fund a new $1.75 billion MLB stadium project
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed that the study would examine the business planning involved and expansion considerations, including the effects on talent alignment and competitive balance of players.
He was explicit that there is no time frame at the moment, adding that this initial directive is simply the first step of a possible multi-year project.
The NBA's advisory finance, audit, and strategy committees, composed of a small group of owners, will be vital to examining numbers and helping to frame the conversation. No deals are guaranteed, but a combination of prospective owners are setting themselves up to be taken seriously for a Las Vegas franchise.
Silver mentioned Las Vegas' recent NBA connection, including hosting the long-time Summer League and the NBA Cup. He likened Las Vegas to a "31st franchise in spirit," reflecting its growing role in the league's calendar and visibility.
Several groups are eyeing arena developments that could house a future Las Vegas franchise. These include Oak View Group, known for Seattle's Climate Pledge Arena, and Las Vegas-based LVXP.
Clark County finalizes financing for new MLB stadium
While the NBA investigates potential new franchises, an existing franchise is already preparing for a move to Las Vegas.
Clark County commissioners voted unanimously to establish a Sports and Entertainment Improvement District to support financing a proposed $1.75 billion MLB stadium in the city. The district is projected to generate $120 million in tax revenue to repay county bonds allocated for the project.
The approval followed an earlier permit decision in April and sets the stage for constructing a 33,000-seat stadium that will house the Athletics.
The site is located on a nine-acre portion of the Tropicana property, part of a larger 35-acre parcel owned by GLPI and operated by Bally's Corporation.
The financing plan includes up to $380 million in public funds. Once the stadium is completed and bonds repaid, the district will be dissolved, returning tax revenue to standard county-state allocations.
BetMGM partners with Las Vegas Aces in landmark sportsbook deal
While plans to bring more teams to Las Vegas continue, gambling operations have become more involved with teams that are already set up in the city. BetMGM recently announced a partnership with the Las Vegas Aces that made the WNBA champions the first professional women's team to receive a top sportsbook and iGaming agreement.
The deal covers sponsored content, fan engagement, and social events throughout the 2025 WNBA season.
Throughout the season, BetMGM and the Aces will collaborate to roll out new activations such as branded media, special fan promotions, and locally focused programs. These efforts reflect the increasing overlap between sports, entertainment, and betting, potentially setting a precedent for similar partnerships with other pro women's teams.
