NBA Approves Expansion to Seattle, Vegas; Advances Lottery Reforms

The NBA's Board of Governors approved exploration of league expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas on Wednesday, marking a potential return to growth after two decades, while also advancing proposals to reform the draft lottery system in an effort to curb tanking by struggling teams.

Commissioner Adam Silver announced that the league will evaluate bids for new franchises in the two cities, with a decision expected by the end of 2026. The process could result in adding both markets, one, or neither, depending on financial viability and ownership commitments. Expansion fees are projected to range from 7 billion to 10 billion per team, with proceeds distributed equally among the current 30 franchises, providing each owner with an estimated 650 million or more. Silver emphasized the strong interest in both locations, noting discussions with elected officials in Nevada and Washington state, as well as the involvement of investment bank PJT Partners to assess arena suitability and ownership groups.

In Seattle, the news stirred excitement among fans longing for a return since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, a move widely criticized as mishandled by the league. Kraken...