NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson recently met with Governor Joe Lombardo and key civic leaders from Southern Nevada to discuss plans for an official bid to bring an NBA expansion team to Las Vegas. The talks also included potential development of a new arena and hotel project along the busy Las Vegas Strip, aiming to support the franchise’s success.
Details of the Expansion Group and Leadership
Johnson, a five-time NBA champion and prominent business figure, leads The MAGI expansion group, which features sports and entertainment expert Andre Cleveland and Las Vegas entrepreneur Mike Bellon. This team is actively pursuing the opportunity to secure a future NBA franchise in Las Vegas if the league moves forward with expansion.
Las Vegas is my favorite home away from home, and I can’t think of a better place to expand my MJE (Magic Johnson Enterprises),
Johnson remarked in a statement.
NBA Expansion Process and Timelines
NBA team owners will review the next stages of the expansion at league meetings scheduled for late March in New York. Johnson acknowledged potential logistical challenges, noting NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s role in managing the expansion efforts.
The numbers have to be right, and the league owners would require a lot from the commissioner, but if anyone could do it, it’s him,
Johnson said.
I’m not bragging; I’m just simply stating a fact that I have been doing this long before current and retired players.
Johnson’s Ownership Background and Influence
With a Forbes-estimated net worth of $1.6 billion, Johnson has invested in various sports teams including stakes in the MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, the NFL’s Washington Commanders, the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, MLS’s Los Angeles FC, and the NWSL’s Washington Spirit. He previously held a minority interest in the Los Angeles Lakers as well.
If the NBA Board of Governors approves expansion cities next month, with Las Vegas and Seattle among leading candidates, formal negotiations between the league and potential ownership groups like The MAGI will begin.
Community Impact and Historical Significance of the Project
Beyond owning the team, Johnson’s group is enthusiastic about the chance to be among the first Black ownership teams involved in a major resort and arena project on the Las Vegas Strip. This objective was highlighted during a private meeting with Governor Lombardo, coinciding with Black History Month and marking 75 years since the NBA signed its first Black players.
Andre Cleveland emphasized the potential impact of their Las Vegas development, comparing it to the influence of Madison Square Garden in New York. The MAGI group is evaluating several potential sites both on and off the Strip and is exploring partnerships with existing resort operators in the area.
Support from Nevada Leadership
Governor Lombardo expressed his administration’s readiness to assist as the expansion process moves forward.
One thing’s for sure; there’s a lot of work to be done and I want you to know that we’re here for you,
Lombardo stated during the summit.
Looking Ahead: NBA Expansion Prospects for Las Vegas
The upcoming NBA board meetings will be pivotal in deciding the league’s expansion strategy and whether Las Vegas will secure an official bid. Magic Johnson’s involvement, combined with strong local government support and strategic partnerships, places the city in a strong position amid expanding NBA markets nationwide. If successful, this initiative could bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the region, further establishing Las Vegas as a major sports destination.
