From 30 teams to 32 teams is what the NBA is heading towards.
The NBA is officially taking its next step toward expansion, with the league’s Board of Governors unanimously approving a plan to explore adding new teams in Las Vegas and Seattle.
All 30 team owners voted in favor of moving forward with the process, according to ESPN. Early projections suggest expansion bids could reach between $7 billion and $10 billion per franchise. Sources also indicate the league is targeting the 2028–29 season for the new teams to begin play.
This vote kicks off what many league insiders have long described as inevitable—expansion to 32 teams. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the significance of the move, stating that both Las Vegas and Seattle have strong histories of supporting professional basketball and are ideal markets for potential franchises.
Over the coming months, the league will review bids and ownership groups, with a possible final vote expected later this year. At least 23 of the 30 owners would need to approve any official expansion.
Momentum continues to build around expansion, largely driven by the long-term revenue opportunities tied to both cities. Las Vegas has already proven to be a booming sports hub, landing the NHL’s Golden Knights, the NFL’s Raiders, and the WNBA’s Aces—who have won three championships since relocating. Meanwhile, Seattle has been without an NBA team since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, leaving a passionate fanbase eager for the league’s return.
Now, with expansion officially in motion, the question is no longer if the NBA will grow—but when.
