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The NBA is always looking for more opportunities to expand their market, and they have built a solid base in Canada through the Toronto Raptors. Now, Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle suggested that placing an NBA team in Mexico isn't such a bad idea, as there are a lot of hoops fans south of the American border.
Per Andy Sefko of the Dallas Mavericks, the Mavs coach thinks that an NBA franchise set in a place like Mexico City can thrive. Carlisle believes that Mexico has the facilities and fanfare needed for an NBA team to set roots in for a long time.
“It’s a possibility, for sure,” Rick Carlisle said of the idea of putting a team in Mexico. “It’s not as far as you might think. It’s a two-hour flight for us. There are a few other teams that are closer. It’s something that certainly could be doable.
“I don’t know where the league is on all that stuff. But they have a great building and they certainly have a fan base that would have great interest in it. The love of the NBA game that the people in Mexico City have. It’s heartwarming.”
The issue of expansion and relocation is a touchy matter that not a lot of fans realize is serious. Fans are fiercely loyal to their teams and will not want them to leave. Moreover, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Las Vegas are always hoping to get an NBA team to their town.
Given these factors, it is unlikely that fans will see an NBA franchise pack their bags and move to Mexico.
However, it's in the league's best interests to explore the option. After all, they want to build the league as a worldwide brand. Nothing speaks global than having a team in Mexico.
