NBA Plans In-Depth Study for Expansion Beyond 30 Teams

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced that the league has begun an in-depth analysis of potential expansion, as authorized by the NBA Board of Governors, marking the first formal step in a complex and lengthy process. Silver emphasized that this analysis is still in its early stages, with no timeline, expansion fee, or decisions about the addition of new teams yet determined. Key concerns include the dilution of talent and existing equity, competitive balance, and challenges related to local and regional television markets. Cities like Seattle and Las Vegas remain leading candidates for future franchises, but the league must also consider market opportunities, arena facilities, and local business interest. The analysis is being led by existing league committees, with no new committee formed specifically for this purpose. Silver indicated that the league is approaching expansion cautiously and deliberately, especially given the NBA's current strong media rights deal and franchise valuations, and the next board meeting is expected to continue discussions in September.