Will the NBA Add New Teams? Exploring Potential Expansion Cities and Timeline

As I watched the Giant Lanterns complete their historic sweep against the Huskers in Dubai—first with that thrilling 88-81 victory, followed by a dominant 79-60 performance—I couldn't help but draw parallels to another major sports conversation happening right now: the potential expansion of the NBA. Having covered basketball for over a decade, I’ve seen how league expansions reshape not just team lineups but entire cities and fan cultures. The MPBL’s back-to-back championship run shows how quickly a team can capture a region’s spirit, and it makes me wonder: Is the NBA finally ready to add new teams to its roster?

Let’s talk timeline first. Commissioner Adam Silver has been cautiously optimistic about expansion, but he’s made it clear it won’t happen overnight. From what I’ve gathered through league sources and past expansion cycles, I’d bet we’re looking at a 2028–2030 window for new teams to actually hit the court. The league’s current media deals run through the 2024–25 season, and any expansion would likely follow the negotiation of the next broadcasting agreement. That timing allows the NBA to maximize financial returns and ensure new franchises enter a stable ecosystem. Personally, I think the league is waiting for the right moment—when fan engagement, global interest, and financial incentives align perfectly.

Now, the fun part: potential cities. Seattle is, without a doubt, at the top of my list. Losing the SuperSonics in 2008 was a gut punch to basketball fans, and the city’s hunger for the NBA has only grown since. With a ready-made fan base and the recently renovated Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle feels like a no-brainer. I’ve spoken to local business leaders there, and the energy is palpable—they’re just waiting for the green light. Las Vegas is another strong contender. The success of the Golden Knights in the NHL and the Raiders in the NFL proves that Vegas isn’t just a entertainment capital; it’s a sports town. Add the NBA’s existing presence with the Summer League, and it’s clear the infrastructure and fan interest are there. I’d love to see the league tap into that market—imagine the spectacle of games in Vegas!

But let’s not forget international possibilities. Mexico City has been on the NBA’s radar for years, and for good reason. With a metropolitan population of over 21 million and growing basketball interest, it could be a gateway to Latin America. However, I’m a bit skeptical about the logistical challenges—travel, infrastructure, and political considerations could slow things down. Then there’s Vancouver, which deserves a second shot after the Grizzlies’ rocky stint in the late ’90s. The city’s demographics and economy have transformed since then, and I believe it could support an NBA team now. Still, my heart leans toward Seattle and Vegas as the frontrunners.

Financially, expansion makes a ton of sense. Each new team would likely come with a hefty expansion fee—I’ve heard estimates ranging from $2.5 to $3 billion per franchise. That’s a massive cash infusion for the league and its existing owners, and it doesn’t even account for the long-term revenue from merchandise, broadcasting, and international rights. For example, if the NBA adds two teams, that could mean an extra $6 billion in expansion fees alone. And let’s be real: after the financial hits during the pandemic, that kind of windfall is incredibly tempting. From a business standpoint, it’s almost too good to pass up.

Of course, expansion isn’t without its challenges. Diluting the talent pool is a common concern, but I don’t buy it. The global game has never been stronger, and with rising stars from Europe, Africa, and Australia, there’s enough talent to go around. The real issue, in my opinion, is competitive balance. Adding new teams could create temporary imbalances, but the league’s draft and salary cap systems are designed to address that. Remember how the Miami Heat struggled initially after expansion? They eventually found their footing, and I expect any new franchises to follow a similar path.

Looking at the bigger picture, expansion is about more than just money or logistics—it’s about growing the game. The Giant Lanterns’ back-to-back championship run in the MPBL shows how a team can become a symbol of regional pride. I see the same potential in NBA expansion. Whether it’s reigniting rivalries in Seattle or creating new ones in Vegas, new teams would bring fresh narratives and energize fans worldwide. And let’s not overlook the global angle. With the NBA already broadcasting in over 200 countries, adding an international team could cement its status as a truly global league.

In my view, the NBA is on the cusp of something big. The success of leagues like the MPBL, with its passionate followings and dramatic playoff runs, reminds us that basketball’s appeal is universal. Expansion isn’t just a possibility; it’s an inevitability. I’d put my money on Seattle and Las Vegas leading the charge, with Mexico City and Vancouver as dark horses. Whatever the timeline or cities, one thing’s for sure: the NBA’s next chapter will be thrilling to watch. And as a lifelong basketball fan, I can’t wait to see it unfold.