Global investor interest in the NBA is intensifying as the league moves closer to possible expansion in Seattle and Las Vegas, according to Brian Windhorst of ESPN.
While commissioner Adam Silver hasn’t formally committed to expansion, owner sentiment has shifted strongly in favor of it.
“The league believes there’s an ocean of capital ready to flow into the league, that in fact billionaires and – in the case of Europe – sovereign wealth funds, will be competing to buy in,” writes ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
That growing financial interest has changed the stance of owners who were previously opposed.
The NBA is also exploring a European league, which could operate separately and potentially rival the current EuroLeague.
Recent deals highlight the scale of outside investment.
The Buss family sold a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers to Mark Walter at a $10 billion valuation, while Mubadala Capital invested heavily through his firm.
The Qatar Investment Authority has also taken stakes tied to the Washington Wizards.
Despite some concerns about talent dilution, the financial upside is massive.
Expansion and a potential European league could bring in around $20 billion, or roughly $666 million per current team owner.
NBA Expansion Plans Driven By 'Ocean Of Capital' Prepared To Invest https://t.co/S3NXHBRlnd
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