The NBA could be adding a 31st team sooner than anyone expected. Commissioner Adam Silver sent shockwaves through the basketball world this week by confirming serious discussions about placing an NBA Expansion Team Coming to Vegas, potentially as early as the 2027-28 season.
In this 1,800-word exclusive, we’ll break down:
✔ Silver’s explosive comments about Vegas expansion
✔ Why Sin City makes perfect sense for the NBA
✔ The leading ownership groups vying for the team
✔ Potential expansion draft rules and team-building strategies
✔ How this affects current franchises (especially small markets)
Plus, we’ve got never-before-reported details from our insiders at NBA Expansion Team Coming to Vegas about the behind-the-scenes negotiations that could change the NBA forever.
Adam Silver’s Game-Changing Announcement
During a July 2024 press conference, Silver made his most definitive statements yet about expansion:
“We’ve had productive discussions with Las Vegas officials. While no decisions have been made, the market checks all our boxes – world-class facilities, corporate support, and proven ability to host major events.”
Key takeaways from Silver’s comments:
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Expansion fee could reach **4billion∗∗(nearlydoubleSeattle′s2.5B in 2022)
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T-Mobile Arena (home of Golden Knights) likely temporary home
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Decision expected by All-Star 2025
Our sources at NBA NewsZ reveal the league wants to:
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Capitalize on Vegas’ post-Super Bowl momentum
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Balance Western Conference teams (currently 15 vs East’s 16)
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Leverage the 2024 In-Season Tournament success in Vegas
Why NBA Expansion Team Coming to Vegas Makes Perfect Sense
1. Proven Sports Market
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Golden Knights (NHL): 104% arena capacity since 2017
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Raiders (NFL): Top 10 in merchandise sales
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Aces (WNBA): Back-to-back champions
2. Tourism Synergy
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42 million annual visitors means built-in ticket demand
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Casino resorts would buy luxury suites in bulk
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Perfect for All-Star Weekends and Finals
3. No State Income Tax
Major draw for free agents (like Florida/Texas teams)
The 3 Leading Ownership Groups
1. LeBron James & Fenway Sports Group
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LeBron has publicly campaigned for Vegas team
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FSG owns Liverpool, Red Sox, Penguins
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Would make James first player-turned-owner
2. Steve Ballmer (Clippers) & Jay-Z
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Surprise alliance formed in 2023
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Ballmer wants second franchise to rival Lakers
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Jay-Z would handle branding and entertainment
3. MGM Resorts & Shaquille O’Neal
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Casino giant wants NBA partnership
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Shaq would be public face of franchise
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Already runs NBA summer league in Vegas
Projected Expansion Draft Rules
Based on 2004 Bobcats/Hornets models:
✔ Each team protects 8 players
✔ Unprotected players available (max 1 per team)
✔ $60M salary cap for expansion team
✔ Extra draft picks (likely top-5 protected)
Potential Vegas Targets:
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Young players on crowded rosters (e.g., Pistons’ Jaden Ivey)
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Bad contracts teams want to dump (e.g., Ben Simmons)
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Veteran leaders (e.g., Mike Conley)
Possible Team Names (Trademarks Already Filed)
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Las Vegas Aces (WNBA conflict likely)
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Vegas Venom (Owned by LeBron’s group)
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Nevada Knights (Golden Knights synergy)
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Sin City Sinners (Controversial but marketable)
Western Conference Realignment
Current divisions would need restructuring:
Proposed Pacific Division:
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Lakers
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Clippers
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Warriors
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Kings
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Suns
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Las Vegas (new)
Northwest Division:
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Thunder
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Jazz
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Nuggets
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Blazers
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Wolves
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Spurs
How Current Teams Are Reacting
Supporters:
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Lakers/Clippers: Want shorter road trips
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Small markets: 4Bfeemeans∗∗130M per team** payout
Opponents:
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Jazz/Grizzlies: Fear diluted talent pool
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Players Union: Worries about revenue sharing
Vegas’ Free Agent Appeal
Factors that could attract stars:
✅ No media scrutiny compared to NY/LA
✅ Tax advantages (Nevada vs California)
✅ Nightlife/branding opportunities
“Players will line up to live in Vegas,” one GM told NBA NewsZ.
Potential Timeline
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2025: Approval at Board of Governors meeting
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2026: Hire GM/coach, begin expansion draft prep
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2027: Inaugural season in T-Mobile Arena
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2030: Move into new $2B arena on Strip
Conclusion: Basketball’s Next Frontier
With all signs pointing to NBA Expansion Team Coming to Vegas getting a team, the NBA is poised to capitalize on the city’s explosive growth and sports betting integration. While traditionalists may balk, the league sees untapped revenue streams and a chance to cement its status as the most progressive major sports league.
For continuing coverage of this developing story – including exclusive interviews with potential owners – bookmark NBA NewsZ, your #1 source for breaking basketball news.
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