Expansion plans in Seattle, Vegas reportedly on NBA docket this month

Field Level Media|published: Mon 16th March, 09:57 2026

NCAA Basketball: Wisconsin at Washington

Feb 28, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Former NBA players Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton before the game between the Washington Huskies and the Wisconsin Badgers at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

NBA expansion plans are on the league agenda this month with discussions centering on valuations for franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas, according to multiple reports Monday.

The NBA Board of Governors has had open dialogue about returning to Seattle, where the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise called home as the SuperSonics from 1967-2008.

For an expansion plan to advance, 23 of 30 team governors must vote in favor of the proposal.

ESPN reported the new franchises could be ready to begin play by 2028 and valuations are projected at more than $7 billion.

NBA events are held in Las Vegas, including the annual Summer League, but no NBA franchise has ever anchored in Nevada.

The league last expanded in 2004, and realignment might be necessary to accommodate two new franchises. A current Western Conference team -- Minnesota, Memphis and New Orleans are logical solutions -- could be placed in the East to make the transition to 32 teams work.

--Field Level Media

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