The NBA is poised to initiate discussions regarding league expansion during a meeting of its Board of Governors scheduled for March 2024. Commissioner Adam Silver indicated that the league would not finalize any decisions at this meeting but aims to prepare for future discussions concerning potential new franchises, particularly in Seattle and Las Vegas.
Silver emphasized the importance of clarity for interested cities and teams. “We will make decisions in 2026,” he stated, referring to comments he made during the previous year in Las Vegas. He expressed a desire to avoid misleading any stakeholders involved in the process. While no votes will take place in March, Silver noted that the league would likely emerge from the meeting better prepared to engage with interested parties.
The NBA has recently concluded its collective bargaining agreement and secured national media deals, which Silver described as essential prerequisites for embarking on expansion talks. He clarified that the league is not limited to expanding by a specific number of teams, stating, “It doesn’t have to be a two-team expansion. Frankly, it doesn’t have to be any number of teams.” This flexibility suggests that the league is open to exploring various options as it moves forward.
Seattle’s Bid for an NBA Franchise
Seattle has been without an NBA franchise since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. The city now boasts the Climate Pledge Arena, home of the NHL’s Kraken, which is seen as a significant asset in any potential expansion bid. The arena’s modern facilities and its capacity to host major sporting events enhance Seattle’s appeal as a candidate for a new NBA team.
Samantha Holloway, the owner of the Kraken, has publicly expressed her interest in being part of any future NBA franchise in the city. Her involvement could strengthen Seattle’s bid and provide a robust foundation for a successful return of the NBA to the Pacific Northwest.
While discussions about expansion are set to begin, Silver has made it clear that the league is not currently considering relocating any existing franchises. This stance helps to reassure cities like Seattle and Las Vegas that they are being considered for new teams rather than competing for the relocation of established franchises.
As the NBA approaches this pivotal moment in its history, fans and stakeholders in both Seattle and Las Vegas are looking forward to the outcomes of the March meeting. The potential for a new franchise could reignite the passion of basketball fans in Seattle, restoring the legacy of the SuperSonics while expanding the league’s footprint in new markets.
