
Fri Dec 19 04:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:
Summary:
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced a potential timeline for league expansion, aiming for a decision in 2026. Las Vegas and Seattle are frontrunners for new teams. Silver also addressed ongoing WNBA CBA negotiations, Chris Paul’s situation with the Clippers, and injury concerns in the NBA, stating that current data shows the lowest number of injuries in the last three years, despite perceptions.
News Article:
NBA Eyes 2026 for Expansion Decision, Las Vegas and Seattle Lead the Pack
LAS VEGAS – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver unveiled a concrete timeline for potential league expansion, stating a decision on whether to proceed will be made in 2026. Speaking at a press conference before the NBA Cup final in Las Vegas, Silver acknowledged the league’s interest in adding teams, with Las Vegas and Seattle emerging as the clear frontrunners.
“In terms of domestic expansion, that is something we’re continuing to look at,” Silver stated. “It’s not a secret we’re looking at this market in Las Vegas. We are looking at Seattle.” He cautioned against raising expectations too high, emphasizing the complex economic considerations involved in diluting existing team equity.
“If you own 1/30 of this league, now you own 1/32 if you add two teams. So it’s a much more difficult economic analysis,” Silver explained. “It requires predicting the future.” The league will spend the coming years assessing team interest and financial viability in potential expansion markets.
Seattle, without an NBA team since the SuperSonics’ departure in 2008, and Las Vegas, a burgeoning sports market already hosting the NBA Summer League and now NBA Cup games, have long been rumored as potential expansion cities. Silver did little to dismiss these notions, praising both cities as “incredible.”
Beyond expansion, Silver addressed other pressing league matters:
- WNBA CBA Negotiations: Silver expressed optimism about reaching a new agreement with WNBA players, emphasizing the league’s commitment to increased player compensation. Both sides have agreed to an extension of the current CBA through Jan. 9.
- Chris Paul Situation: Silver expressed disappointment over Chris Paul’s dramatic departure from the Clippers, stating he would like to see Paul finish his career on another team.
- Injury Concerns: Silver disputed claims of increased injuries, citing data showing the lowest number of injuries in the last three years. He acknowledged the ongoing frustration with keeping star players healthy and the league’s continued efforts to address the issue.