2026, a key year for the likely expansion of the NBA to 32 franchises

The possibility of NBA expansion within the United States now has, for the first time, a tentative date. Commissioner Adam Silver announced that the league will make a definitive decision on a possible domestic expansion at some point in 2026, thus setting a timeframe for a longstanding debate. He also mentioned Los Angeles Clippers and the matter of Kawhi Leonard.

Silver made these statements in a press conference prior to the NBA Cup final between New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. “Regarding domestic expansion, it's something we continue to analyze,” he explained. “It's no secret that we are looking at the Las Vegas market. We are also considering Seattle and other markets. I want to be careful with the idea that we are 'playing' with these cities, as we have been discussing this for some time.”

The commissioner emphasized that expanding the NBA is not a simple decision from an economic standpoint. Unlike other projects, such as a possible league in Europe, adding new franchises involves distributing current ownership. “Domestic expansion means selling a stake in this league,” noted Silver. “If you currently have 1/30 of the NBA, you would have 1/32 if two teams are added. It's a much more complex economic analysis and, in many ways, requires anticipating the future.”

He explained that the league is currently in an internal study phase with the franchises. “We are working with the teams, gauging interest levels and gaining a better understanding of how the actual figures would be for those new franchises, how their projections would fit in,” he stated. “And at some point in 2026, we will make a determination.”

Las Vegas and Seattle in the Lead

The debate on expansion has been ongoing for at least five years, when Silver publicly acknowledged that possibility before the 2020-21 season. However, until now, a specific deadline had not been set to resolve the issue. If progress is made, Seattle and Las Vegas emerge as the top contenders. The former lost the SuperSonics almost two decades ago, while the latter has established itself as a frequent host of key league events, from the Summer League to the recent NBA Cup final.

Far from cooling that idea, Silver reinforced the role of both cities. “Seattle and Las Vegas are two incredible cities,” he affirmed. “We had a very successful franchise in Seattle. In Las Vegas, we have the Aces in the WNBA, have been organizing the Summer League there for 20 years, and now also play Cup matches. We know this market very well.” Regarding the city's ability to support another professional franchise, he was clear: “I have no doubt that Las Vegas could sustain an NBA team.”

Beyond expansion, the commissioner addressed other relevant issues. Concerning negotiations for the new collective bargaining agreement of the WNBA, he expressed involvement and optimism. “I am closely monitoring the situation,” he stated. “We are in daily communication with those at the negotiating table. We all recognize that the players deserve significantly higher pay for the league's growth. Now it's about finding a fair agreement. It will require commitment from both sides, but I remain optimistic.”

Los Angeles Clippers

Silver also referred to the recent tense end to Chris Paul's tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers, acknowledging that he had direct discussions with the player. “I am particularly connected to Chris due to his time as the union president,” he explained. “I was disappointed that the situation reached that point. I would love to see him finish the season with another team, especially knowing that he has announced it will be his last year.” However, he avoided commenting on whether the case was handled in the best possible way.

Another recurrent topic was that of injuries and the schedule. Silver rejected the idea that the number of injuries had increased due to the NBA Cup or a heavier load of games. “I can only refer to the data,” he pointed out. “And the data for this season indicates that we have the lowest number of injuries in the last three years.” Nevertheless, he acknowledged the existing concern. “All injuries concern us, especially muscle injuries. The most frustrating part is not being able to keep the top stars on the court.”

The commissioner explained that adjustments have been made in the scheduling planning, the exchange of medical information, and player care, although he admitted that there are no miracle solutions. “It's frustrating for the teams and the fans,” he concluded. “But we must stick to the evidence. There is a narrative that injuries are increasing or that the schedule is to blame, and the data doesn't support that.”

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