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NBA Sets 2026 Expansion Decision, With Las Vegas and Seattle Leading

Existing owners will weigh upfront fees versus permanent equity dilution in the league’s 30-to-32 team analysis.

Overview

  • Commissioner Adam Silver said the league will decide on domestic expansion sometime in 2026.
  • Las Vegas and Seattle are identified as the leading candidates if the NBA adds two franchises.
  • The league is working with current teams to gauge interest and to build on-the-ground economic pro formas for potential clubs.
  • Any move to expand would require a supermajority owner vote, with expansion fees weighed against long-term dilution of ownership stakes.
  • Parallel efforts include exploring an NBA Europe initiative and evaluating new venues for the NBA Cup final beyond Las Vegas.