LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — MGM Resorts remains in talks for hosting a potential NBA expansion team, the company’s CEO said.
Speaking on a quarterly earnings call Wednesday, Bill Hornbuckle touched on their conversations with the league, particularly when it comes to T-Mobile Arena.
“We have been asked how we would position T-Mobile for any and all bidders, and we are working on that with our partners at AEG and [Vegas Golden Knights owner] Bill Foley,” he said. “We are open to all comers, and there has been extensive interest in Las Vegas.”
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Asked about MGM’s overarching strategy, Hornbuckle remained tight-lipped — “I am already under three NDAs,” he joked — but his comments suggested T-Mobile Arena could serve as a temporary home.
“T-Mobile is part of that conversation,” he said. “Whether short-term or long-term, all roads lead to it for now because the league has expressed interest to host a team as early as 2028.”
The NBA announced last month that it would begin formally exploring expansion teams in Las Vegas and Seattle. Hornbuckle said the decision to expand ultimately rests with the league, and he hopes to have a resolution by early 2027.
“We are excited. How could we not be?” he said. “We have all seen the success and what it means to Las Vegas when these sports teams come.”
Located across from New York-New York and Park MGM, T-Mobile Arena opened in 2016 and has been the home of the Golden Knights. The arena also hosted the last three NBA in-season tournament semifinals and championship games.
AEG and MGM each own a 42.5% stake in T-Mobile Arena, while Foley owns the remaining 15%. MGM is responsible for operations.
