NBA commissioner Adam Silver recently indicated that expansion remains a possibility, though it is not an immediate priority for league owners. The growing speculation surrounding new franchises has intensified following the NBA’s unprecedented 11-year, $76 billion media rights agreements with major broadcasters including ESPN, ABC, NBC Universal, and Amazon. This influx of revenue is fueling expectations that adding new teams is inevitable, shifting the question from “if” to “when.”

Challenges and Strategic Considerations for Adding New Teams

Introducing additional franchises into the league involves complex decisions that go beyond simply placing new teams. Such a move would affect franchise valuations, impact player distribution across teams, and necessitate adjustments to the league’s revenue-sharing system. These factors must be carefully addressed before allowing prominent players, such as LeBron James and Stephen Curry, to engage in potential ownership opportunities.

Possible Locations and Conference Realignment Concerns

According to a report by Spotrac journalist Keith Smith, an Eastern Conference general manager shared insights suggesting Las Vegas and Seattle are the strongest candidates for expansion teams. Both cities would place their new franchises in the Western Conference, which already includes 17 teams compared to 15 in the East. This imbalance implies one existing team may have to relocate to the Eastern Conference, or the NBA might undertake a broader reorganization of its entire conference structure.

What Expansion Means for Stephen Curry and LeBron James’ Ownership Aspirations

Stephen Curry, a prominent Golden State Warriors figure, has openly expressed a desire to follow Michael Jordan’s path by becoming an NBA franchise owner. In June 2025, Curry remarked on the significance of ownership, emphasizing his excitement about joining the ranks of those who influence franchise operations and pursue championship-level success. Curry acknowledged that as long as he remains an active player, ownership participation will not be possible, but he envisions taking a seat at the decision-making table after retiring.

“He might be the only one in our generation who has sat in that seat and done it that way. The idea of being a part of an ownership group and the right opportunity that allows me to have an impact on how a franchise should be operated — how you’re going after true winning, like we’ve done here with the Warriors — that’s something I’m excited about pursuing. It’s interesting. Obviously, as an active player, you can’t participate in that level until you’re done. So you’ll see me in the seat somewhere down the road.”

— Stephen Curry, NBA Player

LeBron James shares similar ambitions for team ownership, and the potential arrival of new franchises could hasten opportunities for both superstars to transition into influential off-court roles. How the league manages expansion will likely shape the timing and feasibility of these ownership dreams becoming realities.

Looking Ahead: Implications of Expansion for the NBA Landscape

As talks regarding NBA expansion grow more substantial, stakeholders face the challenge of balancing competitive fairness with financial incentives. The impact of new teams will extend to existing franchise valuations, player dynamics, and conference alignment. The possibilities presented by expansion could redefine strategic ownership models, especially for high-profile players aiming to leave a lasting legacy beyond their playing careers. While concrete decisions remain pending, the ongoing dialogue signals transformative changes for the league’s future structure.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?

A. FIBA, the group in charge of Olympic basketball, limited player numbers to 4-15 for referee convenience. In 2014, they removed this rule, but Team USA continues this tradition in global competitions, such as the Paris Olympics. That’s why Curry, who originally chose No.