The NBA is exploring expansion possibilities following a historic 11-year media rights deal valued at $76 billion. This agreement includes partnerships with major networks such as Disney, NBC, and Amazon Prime Video, marking a significant shift from its previous deal with Warner Bros.
While Las Vegas and Seattle are considered frontrunners for new teams, Mexico City, Vancouver, and Montreal have also emerged as potential candidates. NBA commissioner Adam Silver expressed enthusiasm for the idea of a team in Mexico City, stating, “Personally, I would love to have a team” in the city.
However, during an interview with Joe Vardon of The Athletic after his remarks, which came before the Miami Heat’s 118-98 victory over the Washington Wizards in Mexico City, Silver noted the challenges of such an expansion. He acknowledged that it “would be more difficult to expand to Mexico City than it would be to expand to U.S. cities that have very publicly sought NBA teams.”
Silver clarified that it is “highly unlikely Mexico City would jump above U.S. cities that are currently under consideration.” He emphasized the need for a thorough analysis of all factors related to expansion before making any decisions.
The NBA front office has begun internal studies on the potential for expansion. Silver indicated that adding a team to Mexico City, which has a population of about 22 million, is “many years off” if it were to happen. He suggested that the league’s preference would be to add two teams instead of one to maintain a balanced structure.
“Because then we might have to do some adjustments in the conferences,” Silver explained. “I think it makes sense to have two conferences of 16 teams if we were to do it.”
In discussing the benefits of a team in Mexico City, Silver remarked on the vast market potential. He described the prospect as “more additive” due to the large population of 130 million in the country and 22 million in the city itself.
Silver believes that expanding into Mexico would generate significant interest and enthusiasm for basketball in the region. “Flipping a switch in a country of 130 million people and 22 million people here in Mexico City,” he noted. This perspective highlights not only the business potential but also the cultural impact of introducing the NBA to a new audience.
As discussions continue, the NBA remains committed to assessing the feasibility of expansion into various markets. The league’s strategic approach aims to ensure any future additions align with its long-term vision.
The expansion talks reflect the NBA’s ongoing efforts to grow its global footprint. As basketball gains popularity worldwide, cities like Mexico City could play a vital role in the league’s future.
