NBA is expanding teams to Seattle and Las Vegas

The National Basketball Association (NBA) board of governors greenlit the league’s expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle on Wednesday, bringing the total number of teams from 30 to 32.

Commissioner Adam Silver noted that both cities possess a deep-rooted support for the NBA. 

What’s next?
The move will allow the franchise to start soliciting bids around an estimated range of $7 billion or $10 billion.

If the board approves a bid, Seattle could see a long-awaited homecoming for the original Supersonics, who relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008 as the Thunder.

And, Las Vegas would welcome its first NBA team. The new teams could debut in the 2028-29 season, per ESPN.

However, the growth comes with logistical and competitive hurdles. Both teams would join the Western Conference, necessitating a reshuffle that would move either the Memphis Grizzlies or Minnesota Timberwolves to the Eastern Conference.

Proponents believe an expansion draft will spread talent and boost competition, while skeptics worry about a potential tanking crisis as new teams find their footing.

High-profile interest is already surging, with icons like Magic Johnson and Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley eyeing ownership stakes.