LAS VEGAS — Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers is willing to bet big, saying with conviction that Las Vegas is ready to welcome an NBA franchise.
“Absolutely, they’re going to get it,” Rivers said, underscoring the general feeling among fans and insiders.
With speculation surrounding NBA expansion swirling like a summer breeze, Las Vegas has emerged as a serious contender. Although the league has yet to confirm a schedule for new teams, Las Vegas appears destined to secure one of the valuable slots, likely bringing the league total to 32 franchises. Recent successes, including the NBA Cup and various league events in the city, further strengthen the argument for making the Nevada Desert a permanent home for professional basketball.
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Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who watched his team lose to Milwaukee 97-81 in the NBA Cup Finals, expressed excitement about the possibility of a franchise in Las Vegas : “I think it would be great. The Cup is here, Summer League is in full swing, and as players we can feel the basketball culture in Vegas. The city truly embraces basketball and undoubtedly deserves an NBA team. »
Leading the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo had an outstanding performance, scoring 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists to win the Cup title. Milwaukee’s triumph marks their second NBA Cup victory, following the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory in the inaugural tournament last season. The other Buck, Damian Lillard, contributed 23 points.
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Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 21 points for the Thunder despite shooting 8 of 24, echoed the growing sentiment that basketball has become a cornerstone of Las Vegas culture.
LeBron James has also expressed his desire to become involved in ownership if the league expands to Las Vegas. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently indicated that Las Vegas is “definitely a candidate” for expansion, which is seen as the next key item on the league’s agenda. The city is already looking forward to hosting the Summer League, was the scene of the All-Star Game and is home to the WNBA’s two-time title-winning Las Vegas Aces.
In a city where uncertainty reigns supreme, the odds seem to favor Vegas in landing an NBA team. Silver noted in November, “Nothing is finalized yet, and the decision to expand hasn’t even been made.” If we expand, I anticipate it will be an even number of teams, probably aiming for 32 franchises. » Other cities like Seattle and Mexico City are also in the conversation for expansion, alongside other US cities like Louisville, Kansas City, Nashville and Montreal.
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The professional sports landscape in Las Vegas has changed dramatically. Once considered off-limits to the big leagues, the city today thrives with the WNBA Aces, the NHL Golden Knights, the NFL Raiders, and is poised to welcome Major League Baseball with the move of the Athletics to ‘by 2028. The presence of the NBA Summer League and the NBA Cup further strengthens Las Vegas’ connection to professional basketball.
Despite the city’s well-known distractions, such as nightlife and entertainment, players like Lillard maintain a professional mindset when playing in Vegas. “I’m not 22 anymore. I had fun in this city, but I’m here to focus on basketball this time,” he said during the NBA Cup semifinals.
Last Saturday’s semi-finals were nothing short of dazzling, with a red carpet entrance reminiscent of an awards ceremony. The Raiders’ defensive line was in attendance, along with several players from the WNBA Aces, while basketball legends like Oscar Robertson and Shaquille O’Neal lit up the event as members of the commentary team.
When the day comes that Las Vegas officially hosts an NBA team, expectations for popularity will undoubtedly be very high. “I love this city as a host city,” Rivers said. “This city thrives on big events, and the NBA would fit right in.” With baseball and football already here, it’s only a matter of time before basketball joins the party. I have no doubt that this will happen. »
2024-12-19 06:15:00