Once known primarily for its casinos and nightlife, Las Vegas has rapidly transformed into a premier sports destination. The city now boasts a growing roster of high-profile professional teams, with more on the way. Let’s explore Vegas’s vibrant sports landscape.
Major League Domination
- Las Vegas Raiders (NFL): The iconic Raiders moved to Las Vegas in 2020 and call the spectacular Allegiant Stadium home. The team has rapidly become a beloved part of the city, and their games are some of the hottest tickets in town.
- Vegas Golden Knights (NHL): The “Golden Misfits” took Las Vegas by storm when they debuted in 2017, becoming the city’s first major professional sports franchise. They made an improbable run to the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season and continue to be one of the hottest teams in the NHL with their energetic fan base filling T-Mobile Arena.
- Las Vegas Aces (WNBA): Champions in 2022, the Aces are a powerhouse in the WNBA. The team relocated to Las Vegas in 2018 and consistently draws passionate crowds at the Michelob ULTRA Arena.
Minor Leagues, Major Fun
- Las Vegas Aviators (MiLB): The Aviators, the Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, provide exciting family-friendly baseball entertainment at the Las Vegas Ballpark.
- Henderson Silver Knights (AHL): The Golden Knights’ AHL affiliate moved to the Las Vegas area in 2020 and brings fast-paced minor league hockey action to the Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nevada.
- Las Vegas Lights FC (USL Championship): This professional soccer club has gained a loyal following, providing high-energy matches at Cashman Field.
UFC: Home of the Octagon
Las Vegas is widely considered the fight capital of the world. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has its headquarters in the city and regularly hosts its biggest events at T-Mobile Arena. Boxing also thrives in Las Vegas, with major title bouts frequently held at major venues on the Strip.
The Sports Boom Continues
Las Vegas has firmly established itself as a serious sports market, and the expansion isn’t slowing down. Here’s what’s potentially on the horizon:
- Oakland Athletics (MLB): While not yet a done deal, there are strong indications that the Oakland A’s could relocate to Las Vegas in the near future. Plans are underway for a potential domed stadium, adding even more excitement to the city’s sports scene.
The Sporting Mecca of the West
Beyond the major teams, Las Vegas hosts a plethora of major sporting events. This includes the NBA Summer League, college basketball’s Pac-12 Tournament, world-class rodeo events like the National Finals Rodeo, and numerous high-profile golf tournaments.
Las Vegas has shed its image as a city solely focused on entertainment and gambling. It’s a city where sports now reign supreme, attracting fans from around the world who are drawn to the energy, the action, and its incredible lineup of teams and events.
