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The possibility of Mexico City hosting an NBA franchise has gained significant momentum following recent discussions regarding the league’s planned expansion from 30 to 32 teams. During the NBA Mexico City Game held on November 7, 2026, between the Denver Nuggets and the Indiana Pacers, NBA commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged that Mexican investors have approached the league to explore the feasibility of establishing a permanent team.
Expanding the NBA Landscape
While the league’s primary focus remains on domestic expansion within the United States, the high level of interest from the Mexican market has made the capital city a viable alternative. This comes at a time when traditional candidates, such as Seattle, face challenges regarding financial proposals and ownership groups. ‘We are focused on expansion for the United States, however, several investors in Mexico have approached us,’ stated Silver during his visit to the Arena Ciudad de México.
Market Potential and Fanbase
Mexico represents a substantial market for the NBA. According to league operations data, there are approximately 30 million basketball fans in the country. The league’s digital presence in Mexico is equally strong, with over 200 million annual interactions and 21.6 million unique viewers for live games during the previous season. Furthermore, the Mexico City metropolitan area, with its massive population, offers a distinct commercial advantage over other potential expansion sites.
Strategic Context and Future Steps
The NBA has been actively fostering its relationship with Mexico for years. The recent game was the 35th NBA event held in the country, the highest number outside the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, the Capitanes de Ciudad de México have been competing in the NBA G League since 2021, providing a professional operational foundation.
While no formal negotiations have been confirmed with specific investors, including high-profile figures like Emilio Azcárraga or the Harp family, the league aims to finalize its expansion strategy by the end of 2026. If approved, new teams could potentially begin competing by the 2028-29 season, pending further financial and infrastructure evaluations.
Source: El Imparcial
