NBA Expansion on the Horizon: Las Vegas and Seattle Lead the Charge
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver revealed during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend that expansion is a key topic for discussion at the upcoming March board of governors meeting. While no vote is expected at that time, the league is preparing to take the “next step” in evaluating potential recent franchises. Relocation of existing teams is currently not under consideration.
The Frontrunners: Las Vegas and Seattle
Las Vegas and Seattle have consistently been identified as the leading candidates for expansion. Brad Townsend of the Dallas Morning News reported that these two cities are favored should the NBA decide to add teams. The league has been actively researching both markets, recognizing their potential for growth and fan engagement.
Beyond Two Teams?
Silver clarified that expansion doesn’t necessarily mean adding two teams. The NBA is open to considering various scenarios, suggesting flexibility in the number of franchises added. This approach allows the league to assess the optimal path for long-term growth and competitive balance.
WNBA CBA Negotiations Hit a Wall
The NBA Commissioner also addressed the ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations with the WNBA. Silver stated that discussions are currently “deadlocked” on key issues, specifically salary structure and revenue sharing. With WNBA training camps scheduled to begin on April 19, a resolution is urgently needed to avoid disruptions.
The Stakes are High
The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the future of the WNBA, influencing player compensation, league stability, and overall competitiveness. The current impasse highlights the challenges of balancing the interests of players, owners, and the league as a whole.
Other League Business: Clippers Investigation, Giannis’ Investment, and Tanking Concerns
Silver provided updates on several other league matters during his All-Star Weekend press conference.
Clippers Investigation
Regarding the investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard, Silver stated he is not directly involved in the proceedings. He indicated that a decision has not yet been reached.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Investment
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo recently announced a shareholder position in Kalshi, a prediction market. Silver noted the league is evaluating prediction markets in a similar manner to sports betting companies, acknowledging the require for a comprehensive understanding of these emerging activities. He described Antetokounmpo’s investment as “minuscule” but emphasized the importance of monitoring the landscape.
Addressing “Tanking”
A concerning trend of teams strategically losing games to improve their draft position – often referred to as “tanking” – has emerged this season. Silver acknowledged that this behavior is “worse” than in recent memory and indicated the league is open to evaluating the draft lottery format to address the issue. The Jazz and Pacers were recently fined for actions perceived as contributing to this trend.
The NBA fined the Utah Jazz $500,000 for benching key players in the fourth quarters of games, and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for violating the Player Participation Policy.
FAQ
Q: When will the NBA make a decision on expansion?
A: The NBA is expected to discuss expansion further in March, but a final decision is not anticipated immediately after that meeting.
Q: Are Las Vegas and Seattle guaranteed to get teams?
A: While they are the frontrunners, the NBA has not made any guarantees.
Q: What is the biggest sticking point in the WNBA CBA negotiations?
A: Salary structure and revenue sharing are the primary issues causing the deadlock.
Q: Is the NBA taking Giannis Antetokounmpo’s investment seriously?
A: The league is monitoring the situation and evaluating prediction markets alongside sports betting companies.
Q: What is the NBA doing about teams “tanking”?
A: The league is evaluating the draft lottery format and has already issued fines to teams for actions perceived as encouraging losing.
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