LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Las Vegas is one step closer to getting its own NBA team.
The NBA Board of Governors voted Wednesday morning to authorize the league to formally explore potential team expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle.
“Today’s vote reflects our Board’s interest in exploring potential expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle – two markets with a long history of support for NBA basketball,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “We look forward to taking this next step and engaging with interested parties.”
Sports reporter Alex Eschelman previously spoke to Las Vegas locals, who told her the prospect of an NBA team in Las Vegas would mean more than the money it brings in.
Officials are getting excited as well.
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley said:
“Las Vegas is home to the best and biggest events and entertainment and now we are the world’s arena for major league sports. Las Vegas has always been a basketball city dating back to the heydays of the Runnin’ Rebels and we are excited for the possibility of adding an NBA franchise. The NBA has always been a glamourous and glitzy league and that fits perfectly with the Vegas brand.”
Shortly after the results of the vote were announced, Gov. Joe Lombardo took to social media to share his feelings.
The NBA Board of Governors voted to officially explore an expansion team in Las Vegas. Very excited to see them advance this process!
— Governor Joe Lombardo (@JosephMLombardo) March 25, 2026
My full statement: pic.twitter.com/xRDmVW4my0
This vote does not guarantee a team for Las Vegas, but it begins the next phase of the process.
The vote allows the NBA to move forward with identifying potential ownership groups, arena plans and financial structures tied to adding new franchises.
WATCH| Raiders and Aces owner Mark Davis weighs in on potential NBA expansion in Las Vegas
While no ownership group has been formally announced, interest in the market continues to grow. Any prospective bid would require significant financial backing, with expansion fees expected to reach into the billions.
This is a developing story.
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