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Executives from two major Las Vegas casino operators have backed the city’s push to land an NBA expansion team, arguing that professional sports will become a crucial pillar of the tourism economy as the Oakland A’s prepare to relocate to the Strip in 2028.
Leaders from Wynn Resorts and Red Rock Resorts discussed the economic benefits of bringing more professional sports franchises to Las Vegas during recent public remarks, with both companies expressing optimism about the NBA’s potential expansion into the market.
Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings said the company is “very supportive” of plans to bring an NBA team to Las Vegas, stating it would be good for the operator’s business. The endorsement came as the NBA moves forward with exploring expansion, having secured an initial vote from all 30 team governors in late March to evaluate Las Vegas as a potential site.
The executives pointed to multiple benefits from professional sports, though the specific advantages were not detailed in public remarks. The discussion comes as Las Vegas positions itself as an emerging sports destination, with the city already home to the NHL’s Golden Knights and the NFL’s Raiders.
A’s relocation anchors 2028 timeline
The Oakland A’s are set to complete their move to Las Vegas in time for the start of the 2028 baseball season. A new indoor stadium is currently under construction on the South Strip at the former Tropicana site, representing the city’s first Major League Baseball franchise.
The A’s project has moved forward even as NBA expansion efforts continue to evolve, with multiple organizations working toward building NBA-ready arenas in the market. Reports indicate that Caesars Entertainment and VICI Properties are actively developing plans for a new NBA arena on approximately 50 acres behind Paris Las Vegas, Horseshoe Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood.
Sports tourism as economic driver
The casino industry’s backing of sports expansion reflects broader confidence in sports tourism as an economic engine. Las Vegas has steadily grown its sports calendar in recent years, adding Formula One’s Las Vegas Grand Prix and a range of championship events to complement its existing resort and entertainment offerings.
Sports ETA, an industry organization, has characterized sports tourism as “one of the most powerful economic engines in the United States,” according to president and CEO John David. The assessment aligns with projections that professional sports and value offerings will help drive a Las Vegas tourism rebound in 2026.
The NBA has not yet made a final decision on expansion, though Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed optimism about the league’s future in Las Vegas. The timeline for any formal announcement remains unclear, but the public support from major casino operators signals industry confidence in the city’s sports future.
Key questions answered
When are the Oakland A’s expected to move to Las Vegas?
The Oakland A’s are set to complete their move to Las Vegas in time for the start of the 2028 baseball season. Their new indoor stadium is currently under construction on the South Strip at the former Tropicana site.
Where is the proposed NBA arena planned to be built in Las Vegas?
Caesars Entertainment and VICI Properties are developing plans for a new NBA arena on approximately 50 acres behind Paris Las Vegas, Horseshoe Las Vegas and Planet Hollywood.
Which professional sports teams does Las Vegas currently have?
Las Vegas is currently home to the NHL’s Golden Knights and the NFL’s Raiders.