The Pacific Northwest’s return to top-tier professional basketball has advanced significantly, with the NBA formally approving a league expansion to 32 clubs. On March 25, 2026, the league’s Board of Governors gave final consent to grow beyond its current 30 franchises—a move that paves the way for Seattle’s return to NBA action.

The expansion approval removes the last major obstacle for reestablishing the Sonics in Seattle. League officials said ownership groups interested in joining the NBA as new members can expect to begin submitting formal proposals in the weeks ahead.

The league anticipates naming both new teams by December 2026, marking the official start of a new chapter for the NBA.

Seattle Positioned Strongly

Seattle emerges as a leading candidate to host one of the two upcoming franchises. Analysts across the sport’s business community point to strong backing from existing team owners, who see the region’s market as especially promising for future earnings. One executive noted that a Seattle franchise would likely enter the league already ranked among the top eight in annual revenue potential.

The path to expansion required a supermajority: two-thirds of current owners had to endorse the plan, which translated to support from at least 23 of the 30 franchises. That threshold was met comfortably, shifting momentum toward the next phase—the competitive process to select ownership groups.

Seattle Could Be Back Soon

After more than 15 years without top-tier basketball, Seattle’s window for reinstatement has narrowed into a clear timeframe. Should a local consortium submit a compelling bid—and secure final league approval—the city could welcome its new franchise before year’s end, effectively restoring the Sonics’ NBA presence after their 2008 departure.

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