🏟️ The Long-Awaited League Shift Is Finally in Motion

Welcome to this week’s edition of Sports Industry Weekly.
We’re breaking down the biggest headlines, boldest moves, and emerging trends shaping the business of sports. From major deals to industry shifts, here’s what you need to know. Let’s dive in.

The NBA has taken a major step toward expansion, with all 30 team owners approving a vote to explore adding new franchises in Las Vegas and Seattle. The league is targeting the 2028 to 2029 season for potential expansion, with franchise valuations expected to reach between $7 billion and $10 billion per team. The process will now move into a formal evaluation phase, with a final vote later this year possible.

Both markets present strong opportunities for growth, with Las Vegas emerging as a major sports hub and Seattle maintaining a deep basketball history despite losing the SuperSonics in 2008. League officials and ownership groups view expansion as inevitable, driven by long term revenue potential and increasing franchise valuations across professional sports. If approved, the NBA would grow to 32 teams, with potential conference realignment expected.

Alongside expansion discussions, Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized that addressing tanking is a top priority for the league. The NBA plans to introduce meaningful changes to the draft system, with a special board meeting scheduled in May to finalize adjustments before next season. The goal is to better align incentives and preserve competitive integrity, as the league continues to balance team building strategies with fair competition. (read more)

🏗️ The Dallas Wings will take control of their $81M practice facility after the city approved funding, with the team covering cost overruns.

🎙️ Michele Steele is joining Big Ten Network as a contributor, marking her return to college sports coverage after nearly 14 years at ESPN

📺 Several NFL quarterbacks seen as future TV analysts are still continuing their playing careers, leaving major broadcast roles unfilled for now.

🌍 MLS believes its shift to a global fall-to-spring schedule will be transformative, helping attract top talent and align with international soccer.

📺 Netflix’s MLB debut drew criticism from fans for excessive promos and production issues, including a hard-to-read score bug and missed in-game moments.

⛳ Masters gnome presales are surging up to $1,500 online, fueled by scarcity, resale demand, and rumors this could be the final edition.

📺 CBS will air up to 20 WNBA games on broadcast TV in 2026 as part of a new media rights deal.

📊 March Madness averaged a record 10.1M viewers through two rounds, marking the highest early-round audience in tournament history.

🏀 Adam Silver says there have been no discussions yet on Cathy Engelbert’s future, leaving her long-term role with the WNBA uncertain.

🏛️ Federal lawmakers remain divided on how to fix college sports, with disagreements over athlete employment and collective bargaining stalling meaningful legislation.

⚖️ Frank Thomas filed a lawsuit claiming his jerseys were sold without his consent, alleging unauthorized use of his name and likeness.

📉 NBA players will earn slightly less than expected next season as local TV revenue declines impact the league’s salary cap projections.

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