NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently addressed the future of basketball in Las Vegas, indicating that the city will not be gaining an NBA expansion team in the near future. During a media session on Tuesday, he clarified that a committee to evaluate potential expansion has yet to be formed, and no formal discussions have taken place regarding applications from cities, including Las Vegas.
Silver also discussed the NBA Cup, which recently concluded in Las Vegas with the Milwaukee Bucks defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 97-81 to secure the trophy. While the event was a success, with a full house of 18,519 fans attending, Silver mentioned that the league is considering relocating the Cup semifinals and finals to home markets instead of a neutral site. Many teams are expressing interest in hosting these crucial games, although he acknowledged the appeal of maintaining a tradition in Las Vegas.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding expansion, Silver emphasized that various U.S. cities, including Las Vegas, have strong potential to support NBA basketball. Moreover, the WNBA is on a clear path toward expansion, with new teams set to launch in San Francisco, Toronto, and Portland by 2026.
As the NBA moves forward, it’s clear that while expansion may be on the horizon, it will be approached thoughtfully and strategically to ensure the long-term health of the league. The excitement generated by the Cup’s presence in Las Vegas demonstrates the city’s viability as a sports destination.
In conclusion, while fans and potential investors in Las Vegas may have to wait a little longer for an expansion team, the vibrancy of the recent NBA Cup showcases the city’s appeal as a thriving basketball hub. The league’s willingness to explore home market semifinals and finals might pave the way for a deeper connection with fans while still holding space for the allure of Las Vegas in future events.