The NBA’s worldwide presence continues to grow, fueling speculation about future expansion into other locations. Some towns stand out for their rich basketball histories, devoted fan bases, and the prospect of spectacular events. But who deserves the spotlight? Here are ten hotspots that could become the league’s next franchise home.
Seattle, Washington
Years after, many NBA fans continue to lament the SuperSonics’ absence. Seattle is a basketball town with a history of producing NBA stars. Its fans are die-hard, and the city is already home to a state-of-the-art arena. Bringing back the Sonics would be a slam dunk.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas, home to the NFL’s Raiders and the NHL’s Golden Knights, has swiftly become a sports hotspot. With a growing population and endless entertainment options, the Sin City is primed for an NBA franchise. Time and again, Vegas has proven it can handle big-time sports.
Mexico City, Mexico
Another strong contender for NBA expansion is Mexico City. Establishing a team here would strengthen the NBA’s presence in Latin America, tapping into a sports-crazed market of over 20 million residents. The town backs a successful G-League team and provides a vast audience without time-zone challenges.
Louisville, Kentucky
Home to the NCAA powerhouse Cardinals, Kentucky lives and breathes basketball. The KFC Yum! Center, a state-of-the-art arena, is ready to host. With a history as the home of the ABA’s Kentucky Colonels, a new NBA team would fill a significant local demand.
St. Louis, Missouri
With an extensive sporting legacy, St. Louis is well-suited for an NBA team. Once home to the Hawks, who won the 1958 title before moving to Atlanta, the Gateway to the West has loyal fans and a compelling history. An NBA team would complete the city’s sports trifecta and meet high demand.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
An NBA club would round out Pittsburgh’s sports landscape, bringing all four major North American sports. Steel City has a vibrant sports culture that would further energize an NBA team. With successful NFL, MLB, and NHL teams—the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates—Pittsburgh’s candidacy is undeniable and cannot be overlooked.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, already buzzing with the Titans and Predators, could be elevated with an NBA team. It would be a thrilling addition to an Urban area that’s already a major tourist magnet. Since Bridgestone Arena is alive with NHL action, an NBA franchise would amplify the excitement and capitalize on the dynamic of Music City.
San Diego,
This city’s beautiful weather makes it a prime location for sports fans. Though it lost its NBA team, the Clippers, to Los Angeles decades ago, its passion for basketball hasn’t waned. With a suitable investment, San Diego could become a sun-soaked haven for NBA enthusiasts.
Kansas City, Missouri
While the Kansas City Kings succeeded more in Sacramento, Kansas remains a fervent basketball hotbed. The T-Mobile Center is a premier venue, and its growing metropolitan area adds to its appeal. Could the NBA be tempted to return to the heartland? Kansas deserves another shot at NBA glory.
Vancouver, British Columbia
The city’s brief stay with the Grizzlies sparked a desire for more. Vancouver’s thriving economy and diverse population make it an ideal choice for an NBA return. With a chance to reignite the Canadian rivalry with Toronto and share an arena with the NHL’s Canucks, Vancouver could become an NBA hub.
