For the first time since 2004! NBA to expand to 32 teams
The National Basketball Association is on the verge of expanding for the first time since 2004. As early as 2026, the league could grow from 30 to 32 teams, according to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
According to The Athletic, the leading candidates to receive new franchises are Seattle and Las Vegas. Notably, Las Vegas hosted the NBA's in-season tournament final this year, and the city has been the venue for Summer League games for several years running—further strengthening its bid.
In Seattle, the prospect of bringing top-level basketball back remains a particularly sensitive subject. Local fans have been waiting 17 long years for a revival since the legendary SuperSonics were relocated to Oklahoma.
For reference, the NBA hasn't expanded since 2004, when the Charlotte Hornets became the league's 30th franchise.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
