The Las Vegas Diamond Arena project has been introduced as a potential destination for an NBA expansion franchise in Sin City, featuring more than 21,000 seats and the “largest parking capacity” of any competing site.
"This isn't just another arena project – it's a global stage for the NBA," Las Vegas Diamond Arena Spokesman Tom Letizia said.
"The league is looking for a long-term home in Las Vegas, and this site delivers everything needed to define the future."
Letizia was retained to lead communications and strategic positioning for the project, which currently remains unaffiliated with a casino or hospitality operator to allow for broader partnership opportunities and alignment with the NBA’s long-term strategic interests.
"The question isn't whether Las Vegas is ready for the NBA – the NHL and NFL have already proven that," Letizia continued.
"The question is which arena provides the league with the best long-term platform. We believe the Diamond Arena clearly stands apart."
The new Diamond Arena would be located directly across from Mandalay Bay, proposing a 100,000 sq ft ground-level plaza in addition to 140,000 sq ft of team and broadcast facilities.
On March 25, the NBA Board of Governors provided approval for the league to consider expansion bids exclusively in Seattle and Las Vegas during late 2026, with an application process expected to generate between $7-10bn offers for both teams.
NBA Owners and Governors are reportedly targeting the 2028-2029 regular season as to when the franchises would make their inaugural debuts in the league.
In order for either expansion to be approved by the NBA Board of Governors, 23 of 30 officials must sign off on the transactions during the vote expected to take place later this year.
MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle welcomed the decision to bring the Super Bowl back to Las Vegas after NFL owners awarded Super Bowl LXIII to Allegiant Stadium on March 31
