Major professional sports leagues in the United States are continuing to grow beyond their traditional borders. From NFL games in Europe to MLB’s global showcases, international expansion has become a clear focus. The NBA has been at the forefront of this movement, highlighted by its games in Abu Dhabi and growing global fanbase.
Now, there is fresh news not about international reach, but about the league’s potential growth at home. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has shared a clearer picture of when fans can expect a decision on league expansion.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s Latest Comment Regarding League Expansion
NBA commissioner Silver said Tuesday night that the league expects to make a decision on expansion sometime in 2026.
He once again highlighted Seattle and Las Vegas as top candidates if the NBA decides to add new franchises, and Silver made these comments in Las Vegas before the NBA Cup championship game between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs.
“I think Seattle and Las Vegas are two incredible cities. Obviously, we had a team in Seattle that had great success. We have a WNBA team in Las Vegas in the Aces. We’ve been playing the Summer League here for 20 years. Playing our Cup games here, so we’re very familiar with this market. I don’t have any doubt that Las Vegas is, despite all the major league teams here and the other entertainment properties, that this city could support an NBA team.”
“I think now we’re in the process of working with our teams and gauging the level of interest and having a better understanding of what the economics would be on the ground for those particular teams and what a pro forma would look like for them. And then sometime in 2026, we’ll make a determination,” said Silver during the interview.
Talk of the NBA growing beyond its current 30 teams is nothing new.
For years, fans and executives have speculated about when and where expansion might happen. One of the most high-profile voices in this conversation has been LeBron James. As far back as 2022, James openly said he wanted to own an NBA team after retiring, with Las Vegas being his preferred location.
“I would love to bring a team here at some point. That would be amazing. I know Adam is in Abu Dhabi right now, I believe. But he probably sees every single interview and transcript that comes through from NBA players… So, I want the team here, Adam. Thank you,” said James in 2022 as per ESPN.
Despite the excitement around such possibilities, no agreements have been finalized so far. The league continues to weigh complex issues such as how adding teams would affect shared revenue, whether potential cities have NBA-ready arenas, and how large expansion fees could balance those concerns.
On the other hand, expansion is already happening in women’s professional basketball.
In June, the WNBA announced a major growth plan as three new teams were revealed that will join the league in the coming years. They are Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. According to Sportico, each franchise is supported by ownership groups with NBA connections, and each paid an eye-opening $250 million expansion fee.
Cleveland is scheduled to debut in 2028, Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030. Moreover, the league has also confirmed that expansion will continue, with Toronto and Portland set to join the WNBA in 2026.
What will ultimately happen with NBA expansion remains uncertain. However, with Silver signaling a firm timeline, the wait may finally be nearing its end.
