# NBA steps up Mexico growth push as franchise ambitions remain on hold

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/nba-steps-up-mexico-growth-push-as-franchise-ambitions-remain-on-hold/
- Published: 2026-11-07T00:51:28+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-07T01:22:32+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/nba-steps-up-mexico-growth-push-franchise-ambitions-remain-hold-6532501
- Topics: Americas, Basketball, Sport, World

## Key points

- The NBA says Mexico has about 30 million fans.
- It is expanding programmes and events throughout the year.
- A Mexican franchise is not part of immediate expansion plans.

## Summary

The NBA is expanding its year-round activities in Mexico to build on a rapidly growing fan base, while a Mexican franchise remains outside the league’s immediate plans. The effort reflects Mexico’s importance as a major market and focuses on keeping fans engaged beyond the regular-season games played in Mexico City.

The league estimates Mexico has 30 million fans, more than twice as many as 12 to 14 years ago; 21.6 million unique fans watched live NBA games via streaming last season. The Nuggets and Pacers are due to play the NBA’s 35th game in Mexico since 1992, while clinics, coaching programmes, local content and the Mexico City Capitanes offer year-round connections. The league is currently exploring expansion in Las Vegas and Seattle, with a decision expected by the end of 2026.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.