NBA Approves Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas

Celtics to start playoffs after regular season concludes

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:41pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game broken down into sharp, angular shapes and planes of navy, green, and red, conveying the dynamic energy and shifting perspectives of the sport.The NBA's expansion plans will reshape the league's competitive landscape in the years to come.Seattle Today

The NBA Board of Governors has approved a bid to explore expanding the league to Seattle, Washington and Las Vegas, Nevada. This comes as the regular season has just concluded, with the Boston Celtics set to begin their playoff run.

Why it matters

Expansion to new markets like Seattle and Las Vegas would grow the NBA's reach and fanbase, while the start of the playoffs marks an exciting time for basketball fans as teams compete for the championship.

The details

The NBA Board of Governors voted to officially explore adding franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas, two cities that have long been rumored as potential expansion targets. This move comes as the regular season has just wrapped up, with the Boston Celtics preparing to begin their quest for an NBA title after finishing the season as one of the league's top teams.

  • The NBA regular season concluded on April 13, 2026.
  • The NBA Board of Governors approved the expansion bid on the same day, April 13, 2026.

The players

NBA Board of Governors

The governing body of the National Basketball Association that oversees major league decisions and operations.

Boston Celtics

An NBA franchise based in Boston, Massachusetts that is preparing to compete in the 2026 playoffs after a successful regular season.

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What they’re saying

“Expanding to new markets like Seattle and Las Vegas is an exciting opportunity for the NBA to grow the sport and reach new fans.”

— Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner

What’s next

The NBA will now begin the formal process of evaluating potential expansion teams in Seattle and Las Vegas, with the goal of adding the new franchises in the coming years.

The takeaway

The NBA's decision to explore expansion showcases the league's continued growth and desire to bring professional basketball to new markets. For fans, this means the possibility of new teams to root for and an expanded playoff field in the future.