The National Basketball Association is advancing expansion plans for Las Vegas, with Commissioner Adam Silver stating that several active groups are pursuing a franchise. The league aims to make expansion decisions by the end of 2026.
Key aspects remain unresolved, including the team's owner, inaugural season, and home venue. Silver did not publicly identify all groups still in contention.
Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley and the Las Vegas Jacks ownership group, led by former Phoenix Suns owner Jerry Colangelo, have publicly expressed interest.
The 30 current NBA owners will ultimately decide who joins them as a partner, according to Bill Robinson, an assistant professor of economics at UNLV.
Silver indicated that the upcoming round of bids would not be the final stage in the selection process.
A new franchise would need to hire staff, build a roster, and secure a playing venue before opening night. Robinson noted the historical timeline: Charlotte's ownership group received a franchise in 2002 and the Bobcats played their first game in 2004.
Las Vegas faces a longer timeline compared to Seattle for expansion, primarily because arena plans are unsettled. Seattle already has Climate Pledge Arena, which Silver said would require modifications for NBA basketball.
Silver identified a renovated T-Mobile Arena as one potential site but stressed it would require significant improvements to meet NBA standards. The league's stringent requirements extend beyond the basketball court itself—locker rooms, food service facilities, and media accommodations would all demand attention.
Other prospective ownership groups have proposed new venues. Silver described one concept as a "modern entertainment palace," suggesting a high-tech experience. Patrick Dumont, a Mavericks owner, is leading a review of potential Las Vegas arena sites.
Silver said his personal view is that it remains "premature to start locking in a site." The league is evaluating its options carefully.
Demand from casinos for suites and preferred seating will shape the final design of any new arena, Robinson said.
