According to Brado Townsend from the Dallas Morning News, the NBA is preparing for a significant vote in the summer of 2026 regarding the potential expansion of the league by adding two new teams. The leading contenders for these new spots appear to be Seattle and Las Vegas, both of which have been long discussed as prime candidates for expansion. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has frequently mentioned these cities as likely choices if the league decides to move forward with expansion plans.

Seattle's return to the NBA would mark a notable moment in sports as it would mean the city would have teams in all four major North American sports leagues: NBA, NHL (Seattle Kraken), MLB (Seattle Mariners), and NFL (Seattle Seahawks). Currently, only twelve cities in the U.S. can boast representation in all four leagues, which underscores the significance of Seattle's potential NBA revival. Las Vegas, meanwhile, continues to grow as a sports hub and has been positioning itself as a competitive contender for the NBA's next expansion teams.

As the discussions and eventual vote approach, the implications for both cities are substantial, not only in terms of local economic benefits and job creation but also in solidifying their status as sports capitals in the U.S. The continued emphasis on U.S. cities for league expansion, with Canada and Mexico being mentioned but not prioritized, reflects a strategic focus on markets already familiar with the franchise model and fan engagement in professional sports.