Seattle, Vegas approved for NBA Exploration

Seattle, Vegas approved for NBA Exploration

March 27, 2026

NBA Board of Governors approves exploration of expansion to Seattle, Las Vegas
The National Basketball Association Board of Governors approved a plan to formally explore possible expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas. Commissioner Adam Silver said the league hired an investment bank to evaluate potential ownership groups, arena readiness, and the financial impact of adding new teams. The move does not guarantee expansion yet but signals serious interest in returning a franchise to Seattle and adding one in Las Vegas if conditions are favorable.
^NBA

Beverly Hills Billionaire Tom Gores Joins Bidders to Purchase Padres
Billionaire Tom Gores has joined three other finalists bidding to buy the San Diego Padres following the death of former owner Peter Seidler. The team could sell for over $3.5 billion, with another round of bids expected in mid-April before a final decision. If Gores or another bidder wins, the new ownership could influence the Padres’ future spending strategy and long-term competitiveness.
^{Padres Mission}

The NFL proposes contingencies for replacement refs in hopes of avoiding another ‘Fail Mary’
Negotiations between the NFL Referees Association and the National Football League broke off, raising the possibility that replacement officials could be used if no agreement is reached before the season. The league has begun preparing contingency plans, including expanded replay authority to help correct obvious mistakes during games if replacement referees are needed. The dispute centers on issues like pay, benefits, and working conditions as the current labor agreement has expired. Both sides say they remain open to further talks, but the standoff increases the risk of replacement refs early in the upcoming season.
^{AP News}

Yankees shortstop José Caballero makes MLB history, becomes first player to use Automated Ball-Strike System
José Caballero of the New York Yankees became the first MLB player to use the new Automated Ball-Strike System during a regular-season game on Opening Day. He challenged a strike call in the fourth inning against the San Francisco Giants, but the review confirmed the original call. The ABS system allows batters, pitchers, and catchers to challenge ball-and-strike calls using technology that tracks pitch location. Even though his challenge was unsuccessful, the moment marked a historic step in MLB’s use of technology to assist umpiring decisions.
^{Fox News}

Dodger Stadium field unveils sponsor name for first time
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that the playing surface at Dodger Stadium will now be called “Uniqlo Field,”marking the first time ever the stadium’s field has had a corporate sponsor name. The change was unveiled just before the Dodgers opened their season while chasing a third straight championship run. The move reflects a broader trend across MLB toward selling naming rights to generate revenue, something the Dodgers had explored for several years.
^ESPN

Sacramento Republic raises ambitions for new stadium
Sacramento Republic FC has expanded plans for its new downtown stadium, increasing capacity to more than 20,000 seats and adding features like a roof canopy to improve the fan experience. The venue will be part of a larger mixed-use development in the Sacramento Railyards and is expected to host concerts and other major events in addition to soccer. Team ownership says the larger design reflects strong fan demand and regional growth ambitions, with the stadium projected to open around the 2028 season. The upgraded project could also strengthen Sacramento’s chances if the club pursues a future move to Major League Soccer.
^{The Stadium Business}

Adam Silver lauds Cathy Engelbert but stays mum on her future as WNBA commissioner
Adam Silver praised Cathy Engelbert for doing a “fantastic job” leading the WNBA during a period of rapid growth in popularity and business success. He highlighted progress such as expansion plans, rising attendance, and increased media attention around the league. However, Silver declined to comment on Engelbert’s long-term future as commissioner, saying there have been no formal discussions about her contract status. The uncertainty comes as the league navigates tensions with players and prepares for major upcoming decisions, including a new collective bargaining agreement.
^{Yahoo Sports}

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Ronald Nored hired at Butler: Brad Stevens disciple leaves NBA sidelines to succeed Thad Matta at alma mater
Butler hired former lockdown defensive guard Ronald Nored. Nored will be the next men’s basketball coach. He recently has been an assistant with the Atlanta Hawks for the past three seasons. Nored has had deep ties with Butler and the Big East since 2013. He played for the school from 2008-12 under Brad Stevens. When Nored was a player at Butler, he was vocal about his desire to move into coaching.
^{CBS Sports}

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