NBA Expansion Decision Expected in 2026, Las Vegas in Focus

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced that a decision on expansion to new markets, including Las Vegas, is expected in 2026. Speaking at T-Mobile Arena during the NBA Cup championship game, Silver highlighted that Las Vegas and Seattle are among the top contenders for expansion, emphasizing the city's potential to support an NBA team.

Silver noted that the NBA has been considering expansion for several years, particularly following a new collective bargaining agreement and media rights deal. The NBA has a history in Las Vegas, with the Summer League hosted there for two decades, and the city already having professional teams in the NFL, NHL, and WNBA.

Basketball Hall of Famer James Worthy expressed confidence that Las Vegas is ready for an NBA team, citing the city's vibrant sports culture and successful events, suggesting that the league has been laying the groundwork for expansion in Southern Nevada.

Silver reiterated the importance of understanding the economic landscape before making a final call, indicating that the league is in discussions with current team owners about this potential growth. With the NBA Cup being held in Las Vegas for three consecutive years, it is clear that the league is testing the waters in this key market.