Mayweather’s Shift from Enthusiasm to Caution (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Las Vegas – Boxing icon Floyd Mayweather expressed uncertainty about joining an ownership group for a potential NBA expansion franchise during an autograph session on Saturday. The longtime resident had voiced interest in such a venture as recently as 2022. His remarks arrived just after the NBA signaled serious pursuit of growth in Las Vegas and Seattle.[1][2]
Mayweather’s Shift from Enthusiasm to Caution
Floyd Mayweather once openly pursued the idea of NBA ownership in Las Vegas. He shared a social media photo with NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson in 2017 and reiterated ambitions multiple times thereafter. Those statements positioned him as a natural fit given his deep ties to the city.[1]
Recent observations changed his outlook. Mayweather noted the visible toll on current owners. “In the past, I talked about owning an NBA team, but it looks like it’s a lot of stress in the NBA being an owner,” he said. “You see an owner get involved with the NBA, and he’s looking happy. Then as years progress, he’s looking older. So, I don’t know.”[1]
High Stakes and Long-Term Value
Reports peg the expansion fee for a Las Vegas team between $7 billion and $10 billion. Mayweather dismissed concerns over the figure. He argued that franchise values in major sports only appreciate over time.[3]
“The way you look at that number, as far as in the NBA, the NFL or any sport, only thing numbers can do is go up,” Mayweather stated. This perspective underscores his business acumen, honed through decades in combat sports promotions. Still, the personal demands of ownership outweighed the financial allure for him.[1]
Las Vegas Emerges as Sports Powerhouse
The city has transformed into a pro sports destination since Mayweather dominated its boxing scene in the 2000s and 2010s. His fights routinely filled the MGM Grand Garden Arena and later T-Mobile Arena. That momentum carried into team sports.[1]
Las Vegas now boasts a robust lineup of franchises:
- NHL’s Golden Knights, who launched in 2017 at T-Mobile Arena.
- WNBA’s Aces, arriving in 2018 and thriving at Michelob Ultra Arena.
- NFL’s Raiders, relocating in 2020.
- MLB’s Athletics, set for 2028.
A potential NBA team could debut as early as the 2028-29 season, completing a rare quartet of major league squads. T-Mobile Arena stands as the prime venue candidate, though renovations remain under discussion.[3][1]
Other Bidders Enter the Fray
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed last week that the league would explore bids exclusively from Las Vegas and Seattle. The board hired investment bank PJT Partners to assess markets, arenas, and ownership viability. A final decision looms by year’s end, with a possible vote at the July governors’ meetings in Las Vegas.[2]
Several groups have surfaced. Magic Johnson’s MAGI ownership team expressed public interest. Golden Knights owner Bill Foley also leads a prospective bid. Mayweather praised Johnson as “a true legend” and “a hell of a businessman.” Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo voiced strong support, citing job growth and entertainment boosts.[3][1]
Mayweather Stays Loyal to Vegas Teams
Despite stepping back from ownership, Mayweather remains a vocal booster. He frequently attends Aces games courtside. “The Aces (are) making so much noise in the WNBA,” he said. “We’ve been supporting the Aces since the beginning, and we will continue to support all professional teams in Las Vegas.”[1]
“I’m happy for the whole city of Las Vegas,” Mayweather added. “I’m going to stand behind the city of Las Vegas and push Las Vegas to continue to be great.” His stance reflects a citywide surge that he helped ignite.[1]
Key Takeaways
- Mayweather cites ownership stress as reason for pause, despite seeing investment value in $7-10B fee.
- NBA eyes Las Vegas and Seattle; decision by end of 2026, possible 2028-29 debut.
- Vegas on track for all four major sports leagues, building on recent successes.
As Las Vegas positions itself for NBA entry, Mayweather’s pivot highlights the challenges ahead for any owner. The city’s sports ascent continues unabated. What name would you give a Las Vegas NBA team? Share your thoughts in the comments.
