NBA Expansion Team Names Pitched for Las Vegas

From the Las Vegas Spades to the Las Vegas Scorpions, fans weigh in on the best options for the NBA's potential new franchise in Sin City.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:37pm

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With the NBA potentially adding two new expansion teams, one of which is expected to be located in Las Vegas, fans have been buzzing with suggestions for the new franchise's name. From synergizing with the existing WNBA team the Las Vegas Aces to embracing the city's Wild West roots, options like the Las Vegas Spades, Las Vegas Crown, Las Vegas Outlaws, Las Vegas Scorpions, and Las Vegas Vipers have all been floated as potential team names.

Why it matters

The name of an expansion team is crucial, as it sets the tone for the franchise's branding and identity. A strong, memorable name can help build fan engagement and excitement from the start. With the NBA looking to tap into the lucrative Las Vegas market, the new team's name will be an important factor in its long-term success.

The details

The NBA is reportedly close to adding two new expansion teams, one of which is expected to be located in Las Vegas. Fans have taken to social media, internet forums, and other platforms to suggest potential team names for the new Sin City franchise. Some of the top options that have gained traction include the Las Vegas Spades (synergizing with the existing WNBA Aces team), the Las Vegas Crown (potentially with NBA legend LeBron James involved in ownership), the Las Vegas Outlaws (tapping into the city's Wild West roots), and desert animal-inspired names like the Las Vegas Scorpions and Las Vegas Vipers.

  • The NBA's 30 team owners are expected to vote on expansion later this month.
  • If approved, the new Las Vegas team would likely begin play in the 2028-29 NBA season.

The players

Adam Silver

The NBA Commissioner, who has stated that the league is considering adding two new expansion teams, with Las Vegas as a likely destination for one of them.

LeBron James

The NBA superstar who has been rumored to be interested in joining the ownership group of the potential new Las Vegas franchise.

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What’s next

The NBA's 30 team owners are expected to vote on expansion later this month, with the new Las Vegas team likely to begin play in the 2028-29 season if approved.

The takeaway

The name of the new Las Vegas NBA franchise will be crucial in establishing the team's identity and building fan engagement from the start. With a range of options on the table, from synergistic names to Wild West-inspired monikers, the league will need to carefully consider which name best captures the spirit of Sin City and sets the team up for long-term success.