Las Vegas and LeBron James appear to be a match made in heaven, with the Lakers star’s recent comments indicating his interest in having an NBA expansion team in Sin City.
“It makes sense. Obviously, the Raiders are here, the (Golden) Knights are here, the Aces are here, F1 is coming soon.”, James on preseason win over Brooklyn Nets 129-126 The team later told reporters.
According to Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic , Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed his interest in expansion after signing a new media rights deal through 2025, which would reportedly be the case if The NBA continues to move forward and Las Vegas will be at the top of the list. thing.
Silver’s recent innovations, such as play-in tournaments, in-season tournaments and hosting NBA games overseas, are part of a larger effort to make the NBA a powerhouse in the sports world. Bringing an NBA franchise to one of the most famous cities in the world fits right into that strategy.
James is one of the most popular athletes in the world, and his addition to the new expansion team will bring tremendous excitement to the team and the NBA. His star status will also have investors lining up for the chance to invest in an NBA team in Las Vegas.
Silver would be wise to hold off on expansion until he’s sure James can be part of that ownership group, and James has been previously linked to an expansion team in Las Vegas, according to GQ’s Howard Baker.
Obviously, it’s impossible for James to become a part-owner of an NBA team while still playing, and given his current level of play, it’s hard to know when he will actually part with the team for good. But all good things must come to an end, and James is undoubtedly in the twilight of his illustrious NBA career.
With Las Vegas already home to the Raiders (NFL), Golden Knights (NHL), Aces (WNBA), and reportedly soon the Athletics (MLB), the NBA appears to be Las Vegas The missing piece of the Gase sports franchise puzzle.
“I think it’s just a matter of time and I hope I can be a part of that time,” James concluded with a smile on his face.