Summary
- The NBA is reportedly preparing to hold an initial vote regarding potential expansion franchises
- Las Vegas and Seattle are heavily rumored as the exclusive markets being considered for the move
- Industry projections suggest franchise bids could land in the $7 billion USD to $10 billion USD range
According to reports surfacing via Bleacher Report and Shams Charania of ESPN, the NBA expansion process is officially gaining momentum with Las Vegas and Seattle positioned as the primary targets. The league is rumored to hold a preliminary vote at the upcoming Board of Governors meetings on March 24 and 25 to explore adding the two new franchises.
If the initial vote secures the necessary 23-owner approval, it is suggested that the league will open a formal bidding process exclusively focused on the two cities. Industry executives project that prospective ownership bids could command a massive $7 billion USD to $10 billion USD per team. For Seattle, the expansion would mark a highly anticipated return following the departure of the SuperSonics in 2008, while Las Vegas continues to solidify its status as a premier sports destination following recent NHL, NFL, MLB, and WNBA moves.
Should the momentum continue, the potential additions are currently targeted to make their on-court debut during the 2028-2029 season. This move would effectively expand the league to 32 teams, prompting a likely conference realignment with either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Memphis Grizzlies shifting to the East.
Just into @GetUpESPN on momentum for the NBA to begin exploring expansion teams exclusively in Las Vegas and Seattle ahead of a vote at the Board of Governors this month: pic.twitter.com/Rlb7FRguKL
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 16, 2026
