NBA Moves Closer to Expansion with Las Vegas, Seattle; Team Name Betting Odds Released

The NBA has taken a major step toward expansion, with the league’s Board of Governors approving the formal exploration of adding new franchises in Las Vegas and Seattle. While the vote does not finalize expansion, it signals strong momentum toward growing the league from 30 to 32 teams for the first time since 2004.

Commissioner Adam Silver called the move the “next step” in evaluating two markets that have long been viewed as leading candidates. Seattle’s rich basketball history — including the former SuperSonics franchise — and Las Vegas’ rapid emergence as a major sports hub helped drive the decision.

If approved, the new teams are expected to begin play as early as the 2028–29 season. The addition would likely require a conference realignment, with one current Western Conference team shifting to the Eastern Conference to balance the league.

Expansion Fees Could Reach Record Levels

One of the most notable aspects of the expansion process is the potential price tag. Reports indicate that ownership groups could be required to pay between $7 billion and $10 billion per franchise, making these teams the most expensive in North American sports history.

That massive valuation reflects the NBA’s surging financial growth, fueled by lucrative media rights deals and skyrocketing franchise values. The expansion fees would be distributed among existing owners, creating a significant financial windfall across the league.

Las Vegas, already home to NFL and NHL franchises, is seen as a particularly attractive market due to its tourism base and growing sports infrastructure. Seattle, meanwhile, is widely expected to revive the SuperSonics brand if awarded a team.

Betting Market Emerges for Las Vegas Team Name

As speculation builds, some offshore sportsbooks have already begun offering odds on what the Las Vegas franchise might be called — an interesting option for NBA betting.

Here’s a look at the leading candidates and odds for the Las Vegas franchise name:

• Mirage — 8/1
• Jokers — 10/1
• Outlaws — 10/1
• Scorpions — 10/1
• Venom — 11/1
• Spades — 12/1
• Diamonds — 12/1
• Vipers — 12/1
• Bandits — 14/1
• Hustlers — 14/1

Other notable longshots include names like Blackjacks, Jackpots, Gamblers, and Neon, all reflecting the city’s casino-driven identity.

What Comes Next

The league will now begin evaluating ownership bids and market conditions before a final vote later in 2026. While expansion is not yet guaranteed, the unanimous support from owners suggests strong momentum.

If completed, the addition of teams in Las Vegas and Seattle would mark a transformative moment for the NBA — expanding its footprint, generating billions in revenue, and opening new opportunities for fans, markets, and even bettors tracking everything from win totals to something as simple as a team name.