NBA Considers Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas

League's board of governors to hold first vote on new teams next week

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:49pm

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The NBA's board of governors are set to meet next week and are planning a vote on whether to move forward with expansion teams in Seattle and Las Vegas, according to reports.

Why it matters

Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas would mark the first time the NBA has added new franchises since 2004, when the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) joined the league. Successful expansion could pave the way for the NBA to grow its footprint and fanbase in two major markets.

The details

The NBA has not expanded since 2004, when the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) joined the league. Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas would mark the first new franchises in over 20 years.

  • The NBA's board of governors are set to meet next week to discuss expansion.

The players

NBA

The National Basketball Association is the premier professional basketball league in the United States and Canada.

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What’s next

If the board of governors approves expansion, the next steps would be to determine ownership groups, finalize arena plans, and work out other logistical details for the new franchises.

The takeaway

Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas would mark a significant milestone for the NBA, potentially expanding the league's reach and fanbase in two major markets that have long sought out professional basketball teams.