In a recent statement, NBA commissioner Adam Silver expressed strong interest in Las Vegas as a potential location for expanding the league’s franchises. Silver confirmed that Las Vegas is “definitely on our list” of cities under consideration for future expansion teams.
Uncertain Timetable
While Las Vegas has been repeatedly mentioned as a potential NBA destination, the exact timeline for expansion remains uncertain. The NBA currently has one more year remaining on its $24 billion, nine-year media rights deal, and Silver has emphasized that serious expansion discussions won’t occur until after finalizing the new media agreement.
Adam Silver, comisionado de la NBA, confirmó que Las Vegas está en la lista de ciudades en consideración para crear una nueva franquicia. La posibilidad se estudiará con profundidad luego de que termine la próxima temporada. pic.twitter.com/fFrnY2oKrh
— VarskySports (@VarskySports) February 14, 2024
Media Relationship Considerations
Silver highlighted the importance of determining the league’s future media relationships before turning attention to expansion efforts. He reiterated this stance during an interview on “The Pat McAfee Show” on ESPN, emphasizing the significance of understanding the landscape of media partnerships before proceeding with expansion plans.
Las Vegas as a Sports Hub
Las Vegas already boasts a strong sports presence, hosting the NBA’s primary summer league and the successful WNBA franchise, the Aces. Additionally, the city has served as the venue for various NBA events, including All-Star Weekend and the inaugural in-season tournament’s semifinals and final.
Other Potential Expansion Locations
While Las Vegas stands out as a prime expansion candidate, other cities have also been considered. Seattle, which lost its NBA team in 2008 with the relocation of the Supersonics, has been frequently mentioned. Silver also mentioned Mexico City as being on the league’s radar, although expansion to the Mexican capital is unlikely in the immediate future.
.@NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Las Vegas is “definitely” on the league’s expansion list Wednesday.
STORY: https://t.co/j9U0ikjh3f pic.twitter.com/xH17fWOANm— Las Vegas Review-Journal (@reviewjournal) February 15, 2024
Annual All-Star Weekend News Conference
Adam Silver provide further insights into the league’s expansion plans during his annual All-Star Weekend news conference. This event, scheduled for Saturday night, will offer additional details on potential expansion cities and the NBA’s overall growth strategy.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirms that Las Vegas is “on the list” of cities under consideration for an expansion team pic.twitter.com/Jef08cnf1W
— Las Vegas Locally 🌴 (@LasVegasLocally) February 14, 2024
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