As per Forbes, NBA generated $10 billion in revenue in the 2021-22 season to recover from the losses of the pandemic. The Golden State Warriors generated the most revenue with a whopping $765 million while even a small-market Indiana Pacers, despite being the lowest on the list, amassed $264 million. Therefore, the murmurs of expansion have been sky-high in current times. Adding a franchise in the dynamic market of a busy Las Vegas can also generate huge returns to grow the league further. But it seems LeBron James may have to cool his heels for a while to realize his dream. 

As LeBron James seeks investment in a new franchise based in the Las Vegas market, Adam Silver has taken a “hold on, wait a bit” approach.

Media rights deal in the way of LeBron James and expansion

NBA General Manager Silver has revealed that as of now, there is no plan to expand the number of teams. The NBA media rights last till the 2024-25 season. Currently, Disney-owned ESPN has the rights to telecast marquee games, including the NBA Finals. However, there is likely going to be a change in the broadcasting pattern, with Comcast being one of the prime contenders.

Silver contends that there is no chance of any expansion talks at least till the end of the current NBA media rights. However, the expansion talks can be on the agenda after that. The Athletic reports that Adam Silver made the following pronouncement during the annual Associated Press Sports Editors(APSE) meet:

“We will turn to expansion once those new media deals are done. It’s not a sure thing but, as I’ve said before, I think it’s natural that organizations grow over time.”

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The NBA hasn’t expanded since 2004 when they added the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets). The primary contenders in the expansion mode have been Seattle and Las Vegas. While Las Vegas has had no team in NBA before, Seattle had the iconic SuperSonics, which later became Oklahoma City Thunder. Las Vegas has added franchises in WNBA, NHL, NFL, and an MLB one is on its way too. 

No franchise dream for LeBron James yet

After the last year’s NBA preseason fixture in Las Vegas between the LA Lakers and the Phoenix Suns, LeBron expressed his desire to own a team in the city. He stated, “I know Adam is in Abu Dhabi right now, I believe. But he probably sees every single interview and transcript that comes through from NBA players. So, I want the team here, Adam. Thank you“.

During the latest ESPY award show, nabbing the “Best Record-Breaking Performance” Award, King James expressed that he wasn’t done yet. First of all, LBJ can’t own a franchise until he retires. 

As per Article 29 of Section 11 under the latest Collective Bargaining Agreement(CBA), Active NBA players aren’t allowed to have any financial stake in an NBA team. Secondly, the league is still ways away from mapping out such a plan as revealed by Silver. However, there is a possibility after the four-time champion retires.

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Do you think James will someday have stakes in a Las Vegas NBA Franchise? What names can you come up with for the Franchise?