The Athletic NBA Daily What does the future of the NBA look like?
Jul 29, 2025
Mike Vorkunov, an insightful writer for The Athletic specializing in NBA economics, joins the discussion with Zena Keita and Es Baraheni. They explore why NBA expansion is unlikely despite interest in cities like Seattle and Las Vegas. The conversation dives into the financial implications of player salaries in college and how this may reshape the NBA Draft. Vorkunov also unpacks the complexities of the league's Collective Bargaining Agreement, touching on its impact on players and teams while hinting at future shifts in the NBA landscape.
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NBA Owners' Reluctance on Expansion
- NBA owners hesitate on expansion because they don't want to share existing revenue.
- The new massive media rights deal reduces incentive to add teams and dilute profits.
Challenges of NBA Europe Expansion
- NBA Europe faces complex rivalry with the well-established EuroLeague.
- The NBA must consider player supply and existing European basketball loyalty.
NCAA Players and NBA Draft Eligibility
- College basketball players are now eligible for the NBA draft at age 22 even while playing in college.
- The NBA is adapting rules to manage players who are drafted but continue college play.