The National Basketball Association, commonly known as the NBA, is one of the most powerful sports leagues in the world. If you’ve ever wondered who owns NBA, the answer is not straightforward. Unlike many businesses, the NBA is not owned by a single person or corporation. Instead, it operates as a collective group of franchises, each with its own owner. This article dives deep into the NBA’s structure, ownership, leadership, finances, and more.
NBA Overview
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the premier professional basketball league in the world. It was founded on June 6, 1946, in New York City as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). In 1949, it merged with its rival, the National Basketball League (NBL), and became the NBA. Since then, it has grown from a small regional league into a global sports and entertainment powerhouse.
The NBA currently includes 30 teams, with 29 located in the United States and 1 in Canada (Toronto Raptors). Each team plays 82 regular-season games. The league ends the season with the NBA Playoffs and the NBA Finals, which determine the annual champion.
NBA Profile
- Founded: June 6, 1946
- Headquarters: New York City, United States
- Commissioner (CEO equivalent): Adam Silver
- Number of Teams: 30
- Type of Organization: Private sports league (not a public corporation)
- Owned By: 30 individual franchise owners
- Governance: NBA Board of Governors (comprised of team owners)
- Main Revenue Sources: TV and streaming rights, ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandising, and licensing
- Subsidiaries and Ventures: WNBA, NBA G League, NBA 2K League, NBA TV, NBA Entertainment
The NBA operates as a centralized brand that coordinates schedules, enforces league rules, manages broadcasting deals, and promotes the sport globally. Yet, each team operates as a separate business entity under the NBA umbrella.
Major Milestones in NBA History
- 1946: NBA founded as the BAA.
- 1949: Merged with NBL and rebranded as the NBA.
- 1960s–1970s: Rise of stars like Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
- 1976: Merged with the American Basketball Association (ABA), adding teams like the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs.
- 1984–1998: The Michael Jordan era. NBA becomes a global brand.
- 1996: Launch of the WNBA, the women’s professional basketball league.
- 2000s: Expansion of global influence with international players and overseas games.
- 2018: Launch of the NBA 2K League, the first official esports league operated by a U.S. professional sports league.
- 2020: First league to suspend play due to COVID-19, later resumed in a bio-secure bubble in Orlando, Florida.
- 2023–2025: Focus on expanding global streaming rights and preparing for a major new media deal worth tens of billions.
Who Owns NBA?
The NBA operates as a collective of 30 independently owned franchises. Each team is owned by individuals, families, or ownership groups. Below is an updated overview of notable NBA team owners as of 2025, highlighting their stakes, roles, and recent developments:
| Team | Primary Owner / Stakeholder | Ownership Stake | Role | Year Acquired | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Clippers | Steve Ballmer | 100% | Sole Owner | 2014 | Former Microsoft CEO; built Intuit Dome |
| Los Angeles Lakers | Jeanie Buss / Buss Family Trust | Majority | Controlling Owner, President | Inherited | First female controlling owner to win NBA title |
| Dallas Mavericks | Patrick Dumont / Miriam Adelson | 69% | Controlling Owner, Team Governor | 2023 | Mark Cuban retains 27%, manages basketball ops |
| Boston Celtics | Bill Chisholm (lead), Aditya Mittal | In progress | Incoming Owner | 2025–2027 | Record $6.1B sale; Mittal invested $1B |
| Brooklyn Nets | Joseph Tsai | 100% | Sole Owner | 2019 | Alibaba co-founder |
| Milwaukee Bucks | Jimmy & Dee Haslam | 25% | Co-owner | 2023 | Joined Wes Edens and Jamie Dinan |
| Minnesota Timberwolves | Marc Lore & Alex Rodriguez | Majority (pending) | Incoming Majority Owners | 2025 (final stage) | Finalizing arbitration and Board approval |
| Houston Rockets | Tilman Fertitta | 100% | Owner | 2017 | Also U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino |
| Phoenix Suns | Mat Ishbia | Majority | Owner | 2023 | Also owns WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury |
| Denver Nuggets | Stan Kroenke | 100% | Owner | 2000 | Owns multiple teams via Kroenke Sports |
| Memphis Grizzlies | Robert Pera | Majority | Owner | 2012 | Tech entrepreneur, Ubiquiti founder |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | Dan Gilbert | Majority | Owner | 2005 | Rocket Mortgage founder |
| Philadelphia 76ers | Josh Harris | Majority | Owner | 2011 | Also owns NFL’s Commanders and NHL’s Devils |
| Miami Heat | Micky Arison | 100% | Owner | 1995 | Carnival Corporation chairman |
| Portland Trail Blazers | Paul G. Allen Trust (Jody Allen) | 100% (for sale) | Trustee | 2018 (inherited) | Team now for sale per Paul Allen’s will |
| Indiana Pacers | Herb Simon | Majority | Owner | 1983 | Co-founder of Simon Property Group |
| Detroit Pistons | Tom Gores | 100% | Owner | 2011 | Private equity billionaire |
| Atlanta Hawks | Antony Ressler | Majority | Controlling Owner | 2015 | Co-founder of Ares Management |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Gayle Benson | 100% | Owner | 2018 (inherited) | Also owns NFL’s New Orleans Saints |
| Orlando Magic | DeVos Family | 100% | Owners | 1991 | Amway founders |
| New York Knicks | James Dolan (MSG Sports) | 100% | Executive Chairman, CEO | 1997 | Owns via Madison Square Garden Sports |
| Charlotte Hornets | Michael Jordan | Majority | Owner | 2010 | First former player to own NBA team |
Steve Ballmer – Los Angeles Clippers
Steve Ballmer, former CEO of Microsoft, is the sole owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. He purchased the team in 2014 for $2 billion. Under his ownership, the Clippers have invested in a new arena, the Intuit Dome, set to open in 2024. Ballmer is known for his enthusiastic support and significant financial investments in the team’s infrastructure and player acquisitions.
Jeanie Buss – Los Angeles Lakers
Jeanie Buss serves as the controlling owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers. She represents the Buss family trust, which owns the majority stake in the team. Jeanie Buss made history as the first female controlling owner to lead an NBA team to a championship, achieving this feat in 2020. She continues to oversee the team’s operations and strategic direction.
Mark Cuban and Patrick Dumont – Dallas Mavericks
In December 2023, Miriam Adelson and her son-in-law Patrick Dumont acquired a 69% controlling interest in the Dallas Mavericks. Patrick Dumont became the team’s governor, while Mark Cuban retained a 27% stake and continues to oversee basketball operations. The Adelson-Dumont family’s acquisition has brought new leadership dynamics to the Mavericks’ front office.
Bill Chisholm and Aditya Mittal – Boston Celtics
In March 2025, a consortium led by Bill Chisholm agreed to purchase the Boston Celtics for a record $6.1 billion. Indian steel magnate Aditya Mittal invested $1 billion into the acquisition, positioning himself as a significant stakeholder and potential alternate governor. The sale is structured to be completed by the 2027–28 NBA season, with the new ownership group planning to take full control thereafter.
Joseph Tsai – Brooklyn Nets
Joseph Tsai, co-founder of Alibaba Group, became the sole owner of the Brooklyn Nets in 2019 after purchasing the remaining shares from Mikhail Prokhorov. Tsai has been instrumental in enhancing the team’s global brand and has invested in various community initiatives in Brooklyn.
Jimmy and Dee Haslam – Milwaukee Bucks
In 2023, Jimmy and Dee Haslam acquired a 25% stake in the Milwaukee Bucks from Marc Lasry. They joined existing co-owners Wes Edens and Jamie Dinan. The Haslams are also known for owning the NFL’s Cleveland Browns and MLS’s Columbus Crew, showcasing their diverse sports ownership portfolio.
Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez – Minnesota Timberwolves
Entrepreneurs Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez are in the process of acquiring the Minnesota Timberwolves from Glen Taylor. The sale, valued at $1.5 billion, is structured in stages. In early 2025, an arbitration panel ruled in favor of Lore and Rodriguez, allowing them to proceed with the purchase. The NBA Board of Governors’ approval is pending, and the transaction is expected to be finalized in the near future.
Tilman Fertitta – Houston Rockets
Tilman Fertitta, owner of Landry’s, Inc., acquired the Houston Rockets in 2017 for $2.2 billion. As of May 2025, Fertitta also serves as the United States Ambassador to Italy and San Marino. Despite his diplomatic role, he remains actively involved in the Rockets’ ownership and operations.
Mat Ishbia – Phoenix Suns
Mat Ishbia, CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage, purchased the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury in 2023 for $4 billion. A former college basketball player, Ishbia has made significant roster moves, including acquiring star players to bolster the team’s competitiveness.
Stan Kroenke – Denver Nuggets
Stan Kroenke, through Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, owns the Denver Nuggets. He acquired the team in 2000 for $450 million. Kroenke’s sports empire includes ownership of the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, and Premier League’s Arsenal FC, among others.
Robert Pera – Memphis Grizzlies
Robert Pera, founder of Ubiquiti Networks, became the majority owner of the Memphis Grizzlies in 2012. Under his ownership, the team has focused on developing young talent and maintaining a competitive presence in the Western Conference.
Dan Gilbert – Cleveland Cavaliers
Dan Gilbert, founder of Rocket Mortgage, owns the Cleveland Cavaliers. He purchased the team in 2005 and oversaw its 2016 NBA Championship win. Gilbert is also known for his significant investments in the revitalization of downtown Detroit.
Josh Harris – Philadelphia 76ers
Josh Harris, co-founder of Apollo Global Management, leads the ownership group of the Philadelphia 76ers. He acquired the team in 2011 and has since expanded his sports ownership portfolio to include the NFL’s Washington Commanders and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils.
Micky Arison – Miami Heat
Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation, has owned the Miami Heat since 1995. Under his ownership, the team has secured three NBA championships and remains a consistent playoff contender.
Jody Allen – Portland Trail Blazers
Jody Allen has managed the Portland Trail Blazers since the passing of her brother, Paul Allen, in 2018. In May 2025, the Paul G. Allen Trust initiated the sale process of the team, aligning with Paul Allen’s directive to eventually sell his sports franchises and direct proceeds toward philanthropy.
Herb Simon – Indiana Pacers
Herb Simon, co-founder of Simon Property Group, has been the majority owner of the Indiana Pacers since 1983. He remains committed to keeping the team in Indianapolis and has invested in community development initiatives throughout the region.
Tom Gores – Detroit Pistons
Tom Gores, founder of Platinum Equity, acquired the Detroit Pistons in 2011. He has focused on rebuilding the team’s competitiveness and has been involved in various philanthropic efforts in the Detroit area.
Antony Ressler – Atlanta Hawks
Antony Ressler, co-founder of Ares Management, leads the ownership group of the Atlanta Hawks. Since acquiring the team in 2015, Ressler has emphasized player development and community engagement, contributing to the team’s recent successes.
Gayle Benson – New Orleans Pelicans
Gayle Benson inherited the New Orleans Pelicans after the passing of her husband, Tom Benson, in 2018. She also owns the NFL’s New Orleans Saints and is actively involved in both franchises’ operations and community outreach programs.
Richard DeVos Family – Orlando Magic
The DeVos family, founders of Amway, have owned the Orlando Magic since 1991. They continue to oversee the team’s operations and have invested in various initiatives to enhance the fan experience and community involvement.
James Dolan – New York Knicks
James Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden Sports, owns the New York Knicks. Despite facing criticism over the team’s performance, Dolan remains a prominent figure in the NBA’s ownership landscape.
Michael Jordan – Charlotte Hornets
Michael Jordan, NBA legend, became the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets in 2010. He is the first former player to become a majority owner of an NBA team and has focused on building a competitive roster through the draft and player development.
Who Owns NBA Teams?
The NBA is a private sports league composed of 30 independently owned franchises. Each NBA team is owned by an individual, a group of investors, a family trust, or a corporation. These owners are granted equity ownership and voting rights through the NBA Board of Governors. The league does not have a single owner, but the Commissioner and Board of Governors guide league-wide decisions.
Team Ownership Structure
Every NBA team functions as a private business. Ownership can be:
- Sole ownership (e.g., Steve Ballmer for the Clippers)
- Family-owned (e.g., the Buss family owns the Lakers)
- Group or partnership-owned (e.g., the Boston Celtics sale to a consortium led by Bill Chisholm and Aditya Mittal)
- Corporate ownership (e.g., Madison Square Garden Sports owns the New York Knicks)
Owners control team-level operations such as hiring coaches, player contracts, branding, and arena management. However, their decisions must follow league rules and policies set by the NBA leadership.
Majority vs. Minority Owners
Each NBA franchise has a majority owner—the person or group that holds at least 51% of the team’s equity or voting rights. This person or entity acts as the Governor on the NBA Board of Governors.
In many cases, there are minority shareholders who hold smaller stakes. These minority owners usually don’t have voting control but may hold influence depending on their agreement with the majority owner.
For example:
- The Dallas Mavericks are controlled by Patrick Dumont and Miriam Adelson with 69% ownership. Mark Cuban retains 27% and still manages basketball operations.
- The Milwaukee Bucks are co-owned by Wes Edens, Jamie Dinan, and Jimmy & Dee Haslam with various shares.
High-Profile NBA Owners in 2025
Below are examples of current NBA owners as of 2025:
- Steve Ballmer – Los Angeles Clippers (100%): Former Microsoft CEO, most valuable NBA team owner.
- Jeanie Buss – Los Angeles Lakers: Represents the Buss family trust, holds majority control.
- Joseph Tsai – Brooklyn Nets (100%): Alibaba co-founder, sole owner since 2019.
- Robert Pera – Memphis Grizzlies: Tech billionaire, owns majority stake.
- Mat Ishbia – Phoenix Suns: Mortgage billionaire, acquired majority stake in 2023.
- Gayle Benson – New Orleans Pelicans: Inherited team from her late husband, Tom Benson.
- Dan Gilbert – Cleveland Cavaliers: Founder of Rocket Mortgage, owns majority stake since 2005.
- James Dolan – New York Knicks: Owns through MSG Sports, serves as Chairman and CEO.
Teams with Ownership in Transition
A few NBA teams are undergoing changes or sales:
- Minnesota Timberwolves: Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez are finalizing majority ownership in 2025.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Still owned by the Paul G. Allen Trust, but officially for sale following Allen’s will.
- Boston Celtics: Record $6.1 billion sale in 2024–2025 to a group led by Bill Chisholm and Aditya Mittal, pending NBA approval.
Ownership Rules and Limits
The NBA sets strict rules for team ownership to ensure financial stability and ethical conduct:
- No team can have more than 30 minority investors.
- Owners must pass background checks and have sufficient liquidity.
- Cross-ownership of teams in different major leagues is allowed but regulated.
The NBA Commissioner and Board of Governors must approve all team sales, transfers, and major shareholder changes.
Who Runs the NBA?
The NBA is run through a centralized administrative structure led by the NBA Commissioner and supported by various executive departments. While each of the 30 teams is independently owned, league-wide policies, rules, and strategies are governed by the NBA leadership and the Board of Governors.
NBA Commissioner – Adam Silver
Adam Silver is the current Commissioner of the NBA. He took over from David Stern on February 1, 2014. As Commissioner, Silver is the league’s chief executive officer and holds the highest position in NBA operations. His responsibilities include:
- Overseeing league policies, rules, and enforcement.
- Managing relationships with team owners, sponsors, broadcasters, and players.
- Leading major initiatives like expansion, global outreach, and digital innovation.
Under his leadership, the NBA has seen record revenues, expanded international reach (especially in Africa and Asia), and progressive policies on social justice and player empowerment.
Deputy Commissioners and Executive Team
The Commissioner is supported by an executive team. Some of the key figures in 2025 include:
- Mark Tatum – Deputy Commissioner and COO: Second-in-command to Adam Silver. Oversees day-to-day operations, basketball development, and global outreach. Tatum is also the face of the NBA Draft Lottery.
- Tamika Tremaglio – Executive Director of NBPA (players’ union): Though not part of the NBA administration, she represents the players in collective bargaining negotiations and labor issues.
Other departments such as Legal, Finance, Global Marketing, and Media are led by senior vice presidents who report directly to the Commissioner and COO.
The NBA Board of Governors
The Board of Governors is the league’s principal governing body. It comprises one representative (usually the majority owner or a designated governor) from each of the 30 NBA teams. This board has the power to:
- Approve rule changes.
- Elect the Commissioner.
- Approve franchise sales and expansions.
- Oversee league-wide financial and strategic decisions.
Each governor has one vote, and key decisions require a majority or supermajority depending on the issue.
Examples of governors include:
- Jeanie Buss (Lakers)
- Steve Ballmer (Clippers)
- Joseph Tsai (Nets)
- Patrick Dumont (Mavericks)
NBA Labor and Union Relations
While the NBA runs league operations, the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) represents the players’ interests. The NBPA works with the NBA to negotiate the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which governs salaries, player rights, and revenue sharing.
This system ensures checks and balances between league owners (represented by the Board of Governors and Commissioner) and the players (represented by the NBPA).
Committees and Special Councils
The NBA also operates with various subcommittees formed by owners and executives. These include:
- Competition Committee: Suggests rule changes to improve the game.
- Finance Committee: Oversees league financial matters.
- Media & Technology Committee: Guides digital strategy and broadcasting rights.
These committees play an advisory role to the Commissioner and Board of Governors.
NBA Governor vs Owner
The terms NBA Governor and NBA Owner are often used interchangeably in media, but they have different meanings in the league’s official governance structure.
What is an NBA Owner?
An NBA Owner refers to any individual, family, or group that holds an equity stake in an NBA team. There can be multiple owners for a single franchise. Owners can be:
- Majority owners – those who own more than 50% of the team.
- Minority owners – those who own less than 50% of the team and usually do not have controlling authority.
Ownership means financial investment in the franchise. Owners share in profits and losses and can influence team decisions depending on their stake and agreement terms.
What is an NBA Governor?
An NBA Governor is the official representative of a franchise on the NBA Board of Governors, the league’s ruling body. The Governor is usually the majority owner or the person designated by the ownership group to speak and vote on their behalf.
Each of the 30 teams has one Governor, regardless of how many co-owners or investors the team has. The Governor is responsible for:
- Voting on league rules and policies.
- Approving league-wide initiatives.
- Representing their team in Board meetings.
- Voting on major decisions such as team sales, commissioner elections, and rule changes.
For example:
- Jeanie Buss is the Governor of the Los Angeles Lakers, representing the Buss family trust.
- Steve Ballmer, who owns 100% of the Clippers, is also their Governor.
- For the Dallas Mavericks, Patrick Dumont became Governor in 2023 after the Adelson family acquired majority control, even though Mark Cuban retained a minority stake and basketball authority.
Key Differences
| Aspect | NBA Owner | NBA Governor |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Any person/entity with a financial stake | Official team representative on Board |
| Control | Varies by ownership percentage | Has voting power for league decisions |
| Number per team | Multiple (majority and minority) | Only one per team |
| Authority in league | Depends on stake and agreement | Full voting rights on league matters |
| Role in Board | May or may not attend | Required to attend and vote |
Why the Term “Governor” Is Used
In 2019, the NBA officially shifted from referring to team leaders as “owners” to using the term Governor, especially in league documentation and board settings. This change was part of a broader effort to adopt more inclusive and accurate language.
However, “owner” is still widely used in public and media contexts when discussing team finances and private equity stakes.
Net Worth of the NBA
As of 2025, the NBA’s net worth has reached new heights, reflecting its status as a global sports powerhouse. The average valuation of an NBA team now stands at approximately $4.66 billion, driven by a combination of booming media rights deals, growing international fanbases, and innovative digital platforms.
The league’s total revenue surpassed $13 billion during the 2024–25 season, fueled by record attendance figures, lucrative sponsorship agreements, and expanding media partnerships. A landmark 11-year media rights deal worth $76 billion, secured in mid-2025, has significantly boosted annual league income to nearly $7 billion, marking a 160% increase from previous contracts.
- Average Team Valuation: Approximately $4.66 billion, according to CNBC and Sportico estimates.
- Total League Revenue: Surpassed $13 billion during the 2024–25 season, bolstered by record-breaking attendance and sponsorship deals.
- New Media Rights Deal: In July 2025, the NBA secured an 11-year, $76 billion media rights agreement, averaging $6.9 billion annually, a 160% increase over the previous deal.
Top 5 Most Valuable NBA Franchises (2025)
| Rank | Team | Valuation (2025) | Ownership Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Golden State Warriors | $9.4 billion | Joe Lacob and Peter Guber; strong tech and media presence |
| 2 | New York Knicks | $7.5 billion | Owned by Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. |
| 3 | Los Angeles Lakers | $7.0 billion | Controlled by the Buss family; iconic global brand |
| 4 | Chicago Bulls | $5.8 billion | Jerry Reinsdorf; historic success and large market |
| 5 | Houston Rockets | $5.7 billion | Tilman Fertitta; significant market growth in recent years |
Here’s an overview of the NBA’s estimated average team valuation and total league revenue over the past 10 years (2015–2025):
| Year | Average Team Valuation (Billion $) | Total League Revenue (Billion $) | Key Notes / Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 1.3 | 4.3 | League revenue steady; early growth of digital platforms |
| 2016 | 1.5 | 4.7 | NBA finals global TV ratings peak |
| 2017 | 1.7 | 5.2 | Expansion of international games |
| 2018 | 2.0 | 5.6 | Launch of NBA 2K League esports |
| 2019 | 2.5 | 6.1 | New TV rights deals increase broadcast revenue |
| 2020 | 2.7 | 5.5 | COVID-19 pandemic impacts revenue; bubble season |
| 2021 | 3.1 | 7.2 | Post-pandemic rebound; digital subscriptions rise |
| 2022 | 3.7 | 8.5 | Growth in international markets and sponsorships |
| 2023 | 4.0 | 10.1 | New streaming partnerships |
| 2024 | 4.3 | 11.5 | Continued media rights negotiation |
| 2025 | 4.66 | 13.0 | Record $76B media rights deal; highest valuations |
Brands and Companies Owned by NBA
While the NBA itself is a professional basketball league, it also owns and operates several subsidiaries, media ventures, and international leagues to expand its global presence, media footprint, and revenue streams.
Below is an overview of the major entities owned by the NBA:
| Company/Brand | Founded | Function | Ownership | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NBA Entertainment | 1982 | Media production and content creation | Fully NBA-owned | Produces highlights, documentaries, and licensed content globally |
| NBA Digital | 2008 | Digital media and platform management | Joint venture (NBA + WBD Sports) | Manages NBA.com, NBA App, League Pass, and social content |
| NBA League Pass | 1995 | Streaming service for live and on-demand games | Operated by NBA Digital | Available in over 200 countries; includes WNBA and G League options |
| NBA G League | 2001 | Official minor league for player and staff development | Fully NBA-owned | 30 teams in 2025; affiliate system with NBA franchises |
| NBA 2K League | 2018 | Professional esports league using NBA 2K video game | Joint venture (NBA + Take-Two Interactive) | 25+ teams; global reach through Twitch and YouTube |
| WNBA | 1996 | Women’s professional basketball league | Partially NBA-owned | Receives NBA infrastructure and marketing support |
| Basketball Africa League (BAL) | 2020 | Professional league in Africa in partnership with FIBA | NBA-backed via NBA Africa | 12 teams; expanding NBA’s reach across the African continent |
| NBA Cares | 2005 | Social responsibility and community impact programs | NBA initiative | Supports global charity and equity projects |
| NBA Fit | ~2000s | Promotes health, fitness, and wellness | NBA initiative | Encourages youth activity and mental wellness |
| Jr. NBA | 2001 (global expansion in 2015) | Youth basketball development worldwide | NBA initiative | Operates in over 100 countries; develops future players and fans |
NBA Entertainment
NBA Entertainment is the league’s in-house production and content division. It was founded in 1982 and handles the creation, licensing, and distribution of all NBA-related video content.
It produces:
- Game footage and highlights
- Documentaries and original programming
- Promotional and marketing materials
- Content for global broadcasts and NBA League Pass
NBA Entertainment plays a major role in building the league’s global brand by partnering with streaming platforms and TV networks in over 200 countries.
NBA Digital
NBA Digital is a joint venture between the NBA and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports (formerly Turner Sports). It manages the NBA’s digital properties, including:
- NBA.com
- NBA App
- NBA League Pass (the league’s premium live game subscription service)
- Social media platforms and video distribution
As of 2025, NBA Digital continues to expand its reach through AI-powered features, multilingual streams, and interactive fan experiences on smart devices.
NBA League Pass
NBA League Pass is the league’s flagship global subscription platform for watching live and on-demand games. It is available in nearly every country and offers:
- Live broadcasts of all NBA games
- Multi-game views and mobile customization
- Original content and alternative commentaries
- Access to WNBA, G League, and NBA 2K League games (in some bundles)
League Pass has become a critical digital asset, contributing significantly to NBA revenue and global fan engagement.
NBA G League
The NBA G League (formerly the D-League) is the NBA’s official minor league, created to develop players, coaches, referees, and front-office staff. It has grown significantly and, as of 2025, includes 30 teams, many of which are directly affiliated with NBA franchises.
Key facts:
- Used for player development and injury rehabs
- Testing ground for experimental rules (like the Elam Ending)
- Stars like Pascal Siakam, Gabe Vincent, and Austin Reaves came through the G League
The G League Ignite team was recently phased out after fulfilling its developmental purpose as college alternatives become more attractive again.
NBA 2K League
Launched in 2018, the NBA 2K League is a professional esports league featuring teams affiliated with NBA franchises, competing in the NBA 2K video game.
Details:
- Joint venture with Take-Two Interactive
- Includes over 25 teams in 2025
- Offers global player drafts, team branding, and prize pools
- Broadcast on Twitch, YouTube, and international esports networks
This league allows the NBA to tap into Gen Z and gaming audiences, promoting crossover engagement between traditional sports and digital culture.
WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association)
The WNBA, while technically a separate league, is partially owned and operated by the NBA through shared infrastructure, marketing, and broadcast partnerships. The NBA helped establish the league in 1996.
In recent years:
- WNBA received over $75 million in capital from investors in 2022
- NBA remains a key stakeholder and promoter
- Several WNBA teams share NBA ownership and arenas (e.g., Phoenix Mercury and Suns)
The NBA supports the WNBA’s growth through joint promotional efforts, shared media rights, and strategic leadership.
Basketball Africa League (BAL)
The Basketball Africa League is a professional league launched in 2020 through a partnership between the NBA and FIBA. It represents the NBA’s biggest investment in overseas professional basketball.
As of 2025:
- Features 12 teams from across Africa
- Has significant sponsorship from companies like Nike, PepsiCo, and Hennessy
- Developed through NBA Africa, a separate NBA-backed investment company
The BAL is part of the NBA’s mission to find and develop African talent while also growing basketball’s popularity and business potential across the continent.
NBA Cares
While not a commercial brand, NBA Cares is the league’s global social responsibility program. It collaborates with non-profits to address issues like youth education, health, and racial and gender equity.
It operates under the NBA’s broader brand, enhancing its community reputation and providing structure to its social impact initiatives worldwide.
NBA Fit / Jr. NBA
These two programs are global initiatives focused on youth development and health:
- NBA Fit promotes physical fitness and mental health
- Jr. NBA is the league’s youth basketball development program in over 100 countries
They support grassroots efforts and help build future fans, players, and ambassadors of the NBA brand.
Final Thoughts
So, who owns NBA?
The league is a collection of 30 independently owned teams. Each team owner has significant control over league operations through the Board of Governors. The NBA itself is a centralized body that coordinates these franchises under a shared brand and set of rules.
With Adam Silver at the helm and revenue continuing to grow, the NBA is stronger than ever. From its founding in 1946 to today, it remains one of the most successful sports leagues in the world.
FAQs
Is Michael Jordan an NBA owner?
Yes, Michael Jordan is an NBA owner. He is the majority owner and chairman of the Charlotte Hornets, having purchased a controlling interest in the team in 2010. Jordan is the first former NBA player to become a majority owner of a franchise.
Who founded the NBA?
The NBA was founded in 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). It was established by arena owners in major U.S. cities to create a professional basketball league. In 1949, the BAA merged with the rival National Basketball League (NBL) to form the National Basketball Association (NBA).
What is the NBA’s net worth?
As of 2025, the NBA’s average team valuation is approximately $4.66 billion, with the total league revenue surpassing $13 billion. The league’s media rights deals and global expansion have driven this significant net worth growth.
Which NBA team is the richest?
The Golden State Warriors are currently the richest NBA team, valued at around $9.4 billion in 2025. They are followed by the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers.
What is the oldest NBA team?
The Sacramento Kings franchise, originally founded in 1923 as the Rochester Seagrams, is the oldest continuous NBA team. The Boston Celtics and New York Knicks, both founded in 1946, are the oldest teams still operating in their original cities.
What does NBA stand for?
NBA stands for the National Basketball Association.
Does LeBron own an NBA team?
No, as of 2025, LeBron James does not own an NBA team. He has investments in various businesses and sports ventures but has not purchased or holds ownership in an NBA franchise.
Does the NBA own the Lakers?
No, the NBA does not own the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers are privately owned by the Buss family, with Jeanie Buss serving as the team’s governor.
Who owns the NBA Commissioner?
The NBA Commissioner, currently Adam Silver, is an employee of the NBA Board of Governors. He is appointed and overseen by the Board, which consists of the Governors (team representatives) from each NBA franchise.
Who is the youngest NBA owner?
As of 2025, the youngest NBA owner is Marc Lore, co-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves. He is in his mid-40s and represents a newer generation of franchise owners.
Does Adam Silver own the NBA?
No, Adam Silver does not own the NBA. He serves as the league’s commissioner and chief executive officer, responsible for day-to-day operations, but ownership is shared among the 30 individual NBA team owners.
Who are the top 10 richest NBA owners?
The top 10 richest NBA owners as of 2025 include:
- Joe Lacob (Golden State Warriors)
- Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. (New York Knicks)
- Buss Family (Los Angeles Lakers)
- Jerry Reinsdorf (Chicago Bulls)
- Tilman Fertitta (Houston Rockets)
- Mark Cuban (Dallas Mavericks)
- Vivek Ranadivé (Sacramento Kings)
- Robert Pera (Memphis Grizzlies)
- Steve Ballmer (Los Angeles Clippers)
- Wes Edens & Marc Lasry (Milwaukee Bucks)
Who owns NBA draft picks?
NBA draft picks are technically owned by the individual teams. However, draft picks can be traded, sold, or exchanged between franchises. The ownership of draft picks depends on the terms of trades and league rules, meaning teams may acquire other teams’ draft selections in future drafts.
Who owns the NBA as a whole?
No single person or company owns the NBA. It is a collective of 30 independently owned teams.
Is the NBA a private company?
Yes, the NBA is privately operated and not publicly traded. Each team is a private franchise.
Who is the richest NBA owner?
Steve Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, is the richest with a net worth of over $100 billion.
Does the NBA own the teams?
No, each team is owned independently. The NBA acts as the league governing body.