Global Expansion for NBA
It has been two decades since the NBA expanded, but things can soon change. With the collective bargaining agreement solved and the new broadcasting deal at its conclusive stage, Adam Silver is planning on expanding the league.
During his annual press conference on Thursday before the NBA Finals, Silver discussed the possibility of the NBA adding new teams with plans of introducing franchises from outside the USA and Canada. “It’s not preordained that we will expand this time, but I know there’s an enormous amount of interest out there,” Silver said.
He further added, “At some point, we’d like to look outside the United States. In addition to Canada. This may not be the right moment to do that, but I’m thinking long term as well.”
However, Silver also highlighted his concern about diluting the player pool with the addition of another 36 players to the existing NBA roster. The maximum number of players on a roster can be 18, and with two new teams, more talent will be influxed. Silver also highlighted the ongoing broadcasting deal, calling it a “complex” matter.
Among the recent things, Adam Silver was also asked about the controversy surrounding Caitlin Clark since she became the recipient of Chennedy Carter’s hard foul. The NBA commissioner did not hesitate to dip his hands into the matter and publicly spoke out.
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Adam Silver Reacts to Caitlin Clark Controversy
The media has been abuzz since Carter’s body tackle on Caitlin Clark from behind during the game between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky. While many have criticized Carter’s actions, some have highlighted them as part of the game. Silver joined the second group with his pragmatic response to a question about the situation.
“Other than as a fan, obviously, it’s nothing new in basketball that there’s sort of ‘welcome to the league’ moments, especially for heralded rookies, but, of course, I want to see Caitlin treated fairly and appropriately in the league. I would say it seems like she can take care of herself. She’s a tough player,” said Silver.
Praising Clark’s talents, the NBA commissioner deemed the situation beneficial for the WNBA, as it is attracting additional interest.
With the NBA Finals underway, the prospect of new teams being added to the league will certainly bring more compensation to the game. Still, as Silver highlighted, it is a stage of pondering at the moment before the wheels start rolling.
Also Read: TNT’s “Inside The NBA” Releases Major Update Ahead Of The 2024-25 Season
