February 4, 2025
In an exciting development that will reshape the landscape of professional basketball, the National Basketball Association (NBA) announced on February 4, 2025, the addition of two new teams to the league, set to begin play in the 2026 season. The expansion is part of the NBA’s strategy to tap into new markets, increase its global presence, and further solidify its place as one of the world’s leading sports leagues.
The new teams will be based in the vibrant cities of Seattle and Mexico City, marking the NBA’s first expansion into Latin America and its return to Seattle after the relocation of the Seattle SuperSonics in 2008. Both cities have long been identified as prime locations for NBA expansion, with passionate basketball fanbases and the necessary infrastructure to support a franchise.
Seattle, which has been without an NBA team for over 15 years, will re-enter the league with a state-of-the-art arena currently under construction in the heart of the city. Known for its enthusiastic sports culture, Seattle has been a major hub for basketball fans and is expected to revive its once-thriving NBA presence. The return of an NBA team to the city has been a long-standing demand, and the new franchise will bring a sense of pride and excitement to the Pacific Northwest.
“We’re thrilled to bring NBA basketball back to Seattle,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “Seattle has always been a cornerstone of the NBA’s legacy, and we are excited to once again have a team in the city. The energy and passion of Seattle fans are unmatched, and we can’t wait to see how the city will embrace its new team.”
The second expansion team will be based in Mexico City, marking the first-ever NBA franchise in Latin America. Mexico City has already hosted several NBA games over the years, and the city’s basketball culture has grown significantly, making it a natural choice for expansion. With a population of over 20 million and a deep love for sports, Mexico City represents a massive opportunity for the NBA to strengthen its footprint in the Americas and attract new fans.
“The NBA’s expansion into Mexico City is a key step in our ongoing efforts to make basketball a truly global sport,” said Silver. “Mexico is an important market for the league, with a rich basketball history and a growing youth movement. This expansion will help us engage with millions of fans in Mexico and across Latin America.”
The expansion of the NBA into these two cities is expected to generate significant economic impact, not just from ticket sales and merchandise, but also in terms of local business development, tourism, and community engagement. The league plans to invest heavily in youth programs in both regions, aiming to grow the next generation of basketball talent and build a foundation for the long-term success of these franchises.
In addition to the on-court excitement, the NBA’s decision to expand into these markets reflects a broader trend in professional sports toward international growth. The league has already made strides in globalizing the game, with international players now making up a significant portion of the NBA’s roster. The addition of Seattle and Mexico City further solidifies the NBA’s status as a league that connects fans around the world.
While the two new teams are still in the early stages of development, the announcement has already sent ripples of excitement through the basketball world. Fans in Seattle and Mexico City are eagerly awaiting the start of the 2026 season, and many are optimistic about the opportunities for regional rivalries, increased competition, and the growth of basketball in both North and Latin America.
The NBA’s expansion is a bold move that promises to bring fresh energy and new dynamics to the league. As the 2026 season approaches, basketball enthusiasts in both cities are counting down the days until they can cheer for their own teams, making history in what promises to be a transformative moment for the sport.
