NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed on Tuesday, December 16, that the league continues to study domestic expansion and plans to make a formal decision in 2026. He emphasized that the NBA is careful not to “tease” cities with prolonged discussions before finalizing a move.
Seattle and Las Vegas have emerged as the leading candidates for new NBA franchises. Silver highlighted that both cities have expressed “tremendous interest,” and if the league moves forward, new teams could join as early as the 2027-28 season.
Seattle is considered a prime candidate due to its large media market and historic connection to the NBA through the former SuperSonics. The renovated Climate Pledge Arena is fully equipped for NBA games, making the city a logistically ready option.
Las Vegas also ranks highly, benefiting from an established sports infrastructure with the T-Mobile Arena and multiple professional franchises, including the NFL, NHL, and MLB teams. Its growing sports culture positions it as a major hub capable of supporting an NBA team.
International markets are also under consideration. Mexico City has been frequently mentioned because of its population exceeding 21.5 million, strong economic base, and existing NBA presence through regular-season games and a G-League team.
Montreal is another city of interest, noted for its sports culture anchored by the Canadiens and acknowledged by Silver as a potential expansion location. U.S. cities like St. Louis and Kansas City have also surfaced in data-driven analyses as potential candidates based on market size, economic potential, and lack of existing NBA teams.
Other cities including Vancouver, Louisville, and San Diego remain on the NBA’s radar, but league leadership has indicated that Seattle and Las Vegas are currently the heaviest favorites. The decision in 2026 will clarify which markets will move forward.
