As a guest on the sports network’s “Pardon My Take” and emphasizing the professional basketball league’s commitment to Memphis, Silver said the Griz traveling to Nashville for a game or two each season could broaden the organization’s fan base.
“[Memphis] has been a great market historically for the NBA, and there is amazing history in that city and amazing culture,” Silver said on the “Pardon My Take” podcast. “There’s no reason why the Memphis Grizzlies can’t be successful.”
Silver stressed that Grizzlies owner Robert Pera is committed to maintaining the NBA franchise in Memphis and that NBA players enjoy playing at the FedEx Forum. However, some players — including megastar LeBron James — complained recently that the West Tennessee city lacks high-level hotels and nightlife.
ESPN reports Memphis has conducted training camp in Nashville the past two years. However, the Griz have never played a regular-season game at Bridgestone Arena.
Of note, the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs the past few seasons have hosted some “home” games in Austin, according to the sports network.
Memphis’ lease at the FedExForum expires in 2029. A $550 million renovation of the arena is planned via city and state funding, part of a greater effort that includes updates to the Simmons Liberty Bowl, at which the Memphis Tiger football team plays.
ESPN reports the NBA is evaluating possible expansion franchises in Seattle and Las Vegas, adding Silver has stressed the past year the league has no desire to relocate any organizations.