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The NBA is set to expand its operations in Mexico with the launch of a G League team in Mexico City. On Thursday, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced that the first team outside of the U.S. and Canada would debut in the 2020-21 season.
During the press conference, Silver commented on the significance of the Mexico-based endeavor.
“I think it’s an important signal to the market just how important we view the entire country of Mexico and all of Latin America,” Silver said.
NBA Mexico VP and Managing Director Raul Zarraga expanded on what the newly-launched team could bring to the league’s talent pool.
“We are looking for talent, that’s for sure,” said NBA Mexico VP and Managing Director Raul Zarraga. “This G League team is part of this basketball ecosystem that we are building around the nation. Now we are creating an alternative for them so in the future they can see themselves living basketball and perhaps playing in the NBA.”
The Trail Blazers and Nuggets are the only NBA teams without a direct G League affiliate. Portland ended its hybrid partnership with the Idaho Stampede following the conclusion of the 2013-14 season.