As the NBA continues to grow, talks of expansion are gaining momentum, with several cities vying for the much-coveted spot. The question isn’t whether new teams will join the NBA but when. Here are 15 strong contenders that could be home to the next NBA franchise.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a top contender for an NBA team. Its growing population, tourism industry, and success with the NHL’s Golden Knights and NFL’s Raiders demonstrate its ability to support a major sports franchise. An NBA team in Las Vegas could tap into the city’s nightlife and entertainment culture and create a unique basketball experience.
Seattle, Washington
Since the SuperSonics left in 2008, Seattle has been clamoring for an NBA team. With a passionate fan base, a strong basketball culture, and a renovated Climate Pledge Arena, the city is ready to welcome back the NBA. The Sonics’ return would undoubtedly be a triumphant moment in NBA history.
Mexico City, Mexico
As the largest city in North America, Mexico City offers the NBA a unique opportunity to expand its global presence. It has already hosted successful NBA games, and its population provides a significant fan base. Nevertheless, the city has good economic stability and infrastructure to sustain an NBA franchise.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Positioned as a growing metropolis, Raleigh has a strong college basketball tradition. Its young, affluent population and proximity to other major cities could create a solid fan base. The city also has the PNC Arena, which is suitable for hosting NBA games, though they might need to invest in a larger arena to accommodate NBA-sized crowds.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver briefly hosted the Grizzlies before the team relocated to Memphis. However, the city’s love for basketball has only grown since then. Its multicultural population and proximity to Seattle could create a Pacific Northwest rivalry. Hence, it is an attractive market for the NBA.
Montreal, Quebec
Another Canadian city, Montreal has a strong case for an NBA team. This city has a passionate hockey fanbase with a strong sports culture that could provide fertile ground for basketball. Montrealers have shown they can support major sports teams, and an NBA franchise would add to the city’s sports scene.
Nashville, Tennessee
Known as “Music City,” Nashville has seen tremendous growth in recent years. The success of the NHL’s Predators lends credence to the city’s ability to support professional sports teams. Nashville has made pitches for an NBA team, and an expansion would further enhance its status as a major sports city, drawing in regional fans.
St Louis, Missouri
St Louis makes a strong case for an NBA franchise because it is the former home of the Hawks and Bombers. In addition, its status as the third-largest U.S. metro area without an NBA team further solidifies its case. The city has solid fan support for the Cardinals and Blues, and the Enterprise Center is well-equipped to host NBA games.
Orlando, Florida
Due to the presence of the Orlando Magic, a strong tourism industry, and suitable sports infrastructure, Orlando is often mentioned as a potential candidate for NBA expansion or relocation. Despite that, the city could face challenges, including its smaller media market than larger cities and competition from frontrunners like Las Vegas and Seattle.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a passionate sports town with a strong college basketball following. The city’s central location could also attract fans from surrounding states. It has hosted several successful basketball events, making it a viable option for an NBA team. Nevertheless, competition from other professional teams will be present.
Birmingham, Alabama
Supported by its status as one of the largest cities in Alabama, a grassroots movement advocating for an NBA team, and the growth of other small-market teams like the Birmingham Squadron, Birmingham is considered a potential candidate for the NBA’s expansion. But, the city has to demonstrate strong financial support and address infrastructure needs.
Louisville, Kentucky
The city of Louisville has deep basketball roots. It is home to the Kentucky Colonels, an ABA team that dominated basketball in the 1970s. Retired players like Dan Issel have advocated for the return of professional basketball to the state. Their strong college basketball fan base could easily translate into support for a professional team.
San Diego, California
As the second most populous metropolitan area in the US without an NBA franchise, San Diego has been tagged as one of the country’s most underserved professional sports markets. The city has been home to multiple NBA teams, including the now-Houston Rockets. A renovated arena or a new venue should back up its claim.
Baltimore, Maryland
Some have argued that with a booming sports culture, the city lacks an NBA team because of a lack of corporate sponsorship. However, the success of the Ravens (NFL) and Orioles (MLB) demonstrates the city’s potential as an NBA market. Baltimore’s proximity to Washington, D.C., could create a rivalry with the Wizards.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii, is a potential candidate for NBA expansion due to its passionate basketball culture, unique Pacific location, and tourism appeal. These could draw international visitors and enhance the league’s global branding. However, its geographic isolation and the NBA’s likely preference for larger markets with existing sports infrastructure further reduce Honolulu’s prospects.
15 Cities That Should Be Considered For The Next NBA Franchise