Adam Silver Talks Expansion, Europe, Tanking Before NBA Finals

BusinessSportsMoneyAdam Silver Talks Expansion, Europe, Tanking Before NBA FinalsByJohn Cassillo,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. L.A.-based lead analyst at The Measure, covering the data behind sports media topics.Follow AuthorJun 03, 2026, 10:22pm EDTOKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MAY 18: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver looks on after the most valuable player trophy presentation before Game One of the NBA Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs at Paycom Center on May 18, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)Getty ImagesBefore the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs tipped off from the Frost Bank Center, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed media around a variety of big topics for the league as it’s just weeks away from the offseason.Among the hottest topics was expansion for the NBA. Both in terms of the forthcoming NBA Europe and the potential clubs being added stateside.Europe, ExpansionIn Europe, Silver stated the plan is 16 teams; 12 permanent members plus four remaining spots. “Any” club in Europe can play in those remaining slots – effectively creating a modified promotion/relegation system where the NBA’s European league would be the big prize for all clubs across the continent.The structure isn’t exactly aiming to replace the existing Euroleague, which has 16 long-term members and four flexible spots. That said, Silver remarked that while the NBA would like to integrate its operations with Euroleague and discussions are ongoing, it will be moving forward either way.As far as domestic expansion, those discussions are ongoing as well. With the focus still centered around Seattle and Las Vegas.MORE FOR YOUSilver reinforced that it’s “not a foregone conclusi...