Does Missouri Have an NBA Team? Exploring the State’s Basketball Presence

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

Missouri has long been a state with a passionate sports culture, boasting fervent fans across a variety of athletic arenas. Among the many questions that arise for basketball enthusiasts and curious sports followers alike is whether Missouri currently hosts a team in the National Basketball Association (NBA). This inquiry taps into the state’s rich basketball history and its place in the broader landscape of professional sports in the United States.

Exploring Missouri’s connection to the NBA opens up a fascinating story that intertwines past glories, relocations, and the evolving dynamics of professional basketball franchises. While some states are well-known for their multiple NBA teams, Missouri’s relationship with the league is nuanced and reflects both its regional sports identity and the shifting tides of professional basketball. Understanding this relationship offers insight into the state’s sporting priorities and the legacy that continues to influence fans today.

This article will delve into the current status of Missouri in the NBA world, shedding light on whether the state is home to an NBA team today and how historical developments have shaped that reality. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or simply curious about Missouri’s place in the NBA, the following discussion will provide a clear and engaging overview of this intriguing topic.

Historical NBA Presence in Missouri

Missouri has a notable history with the NBA, primarily through the St. Louis Hawks. The franchise was originally founded as the Buffalo Bisons in 1946, but after relocating multiple times, it settled in St. Louis in 1955. The St. Louis Hawks became a significant part of Missouri’s sports culture, achieving considerable success during their time in the city.

The Hawks’ most prominent achievement in Missouri was winning the NBA Championship in 1958. This victory remains a highlight in the state’s basketball legacy. Despite this success, the team moved to Atlanta in 1968, becoming the Atlanta Hawks, leaving Missouri without an NBA franchise.

Current NBA Franchise Status in Missouri

As of now, Missouri does not have an active NBA team. The state’s major cities, including St. Louis and Kansas City, have expressed interest in acquiring or hosting an NBA franchise over the years, but none have materialized permanently. Several factors contribute to this status:

  • Market Size: While Missouri has large metropolitan areas, the market size is considered mid-level compared to cities currently hosting NBA teams.
  • Competition: Proximity to established franchises such as the Chicago Bulls and Oklahoma City Thunder creates regional competition.
  • Arena Infrastructure: Modern NBA franchises require state-of-the-art arenas with substantial seating and amenities, which are currently lacking in Missouri’s major cities.

Despite these challenges, Missouri remains a candidate for future NBA expansion or relocation discussions, given its passionate sports fan base and strategic location.

Other Professional Basketball Teams in Missouri

Although Missouri lacks an NBA team at present, the state hosts several other professional basketball organizations and developmental leagues that contribute to the sport’s local popularity.

  • Kansas City Kings (Former NBA Team): Before relocating to Sacramento in 1985, the Kansas City Kings represented Missouri in the NBA. Their departure marked the end of Missouri’s NBA presence.
  • Missouri Mavericks (ECHL) and Other Minor Leagues: While primarily hockey-focused, Kansas City and St. Louis support various minor league sports teams that foster a competitive sports culture.
  • NBA G League Affiliates: Missouri has explored partnerships with NBA G League teams to promote basketball development locally.

Potential for NBA Expansion or Relocation

The NBA has periodically considered expansion or relocation to capitalize on emerging markets. Missouri’s potential candidacy is influenced by several factors, including population demographics, corporate sponsorship opportunities, and fan engagement levels.

Key considerations for NBA expansion or relocation to Missouri include:

  • Economic Viability: The ability of cities like St. Louis or Kansas City to support an NBA franchise financially.
  • Arena Development: Plans to build or upgrade arenas to NBA standards.
  • Local Government Support: Willingness of city and state governments to provide incentives or support for a franchise.
City Population (Metro Area) Arena Status NBA Presence History Expansion/Relocation Potential
St. Louis 2.8 million Moderate (Enterprise Center, primarily hockey) St. Louis Hawks (1955-1968) High
Kansas City 2.1 million Good (T-Mobile Center) Kansas City Kings (1972-1985) Moderate

Both cities retain the infrastructure and fan interest that could support an NBA franchise, but neither currently meets all NBA requirements fully.

Community and Fan Engagement

Missouri’s basketball fan base remains strong despite the absence of an NBA team. Local communities actively support college basketball programs, high school basketball, and professional minor leagues. Fan organizations and sports media continue to advocate for an NBA return.

Engagement activities include:

  • Hosting NBA preseason and exhibition games in Missouri venues.
  • Grassroots basketball programs encouraging youth participation.
  • Collaborative events with NBA teams in neighboring states.

These efforts maintain high enthusiasm for professional basketball in Missouri and keep the state relevant in NBA conversations.

NBA Presence in Missouri

Missouri currently does not have an active NBA team based within its borders. While the state has a rich basketball history and passionate fan base, the National Basketball Association’s official team locations do not include any franchises situated in Missouri cities such as St. Louis or Kansas City.

Historical NBA Teams in Missouri

Missouri has previously hosted NBA teams, though these franchises have since relocated or ceased operations:

  • St. Louis Hawks
    • Existed from 1955 to 1968
    • Originally the Milwaukee Hawks before moving to St. Louis
    • Won the NBA Championship in 1958 while based in St. Louis
    • Relocated to Atlanta in 1968, becoming the Atlanta Hawks
  • Kansas City Kings
    • Operated in Kansas City from 1972 to 1985
    • Previously known as the Cincinnati Royals before relocating
    • Moved to Sacramento in 1985 and are currently known as the Sacramento Kings

Current NBA Teams Closest to Missouri

While Missouri lacks an NBA franchise, nearby states host several teams within reasonable travel distance for Missouri residents. This proximity supports a strong regional interest in the league.

Team Location Distance from Missouri (Approx.)
Memphis Grizzlies Memphis, Tennessee ~280 miles (from St. Louis)
Oklahoma City Thunder Oklahoma City, Oklahoma ~350 miles (from Kansas City)
Chicago Bulls Chicago, Illinois ~300 miles (from St. Louis)
Denver Nuggets Denver, Colorado ~600 miles (from Kansas City)

Potential for NBA Expansion or Relocation in Missouri

The possibility of Missouri regaining an NBA franchise depends on several factors:

  • Market Size and Demand: Missouri’s metropolitan areas, particularly St. Louis and Kansas City, offer substantial population bases and strong sports traditions that could support an NBA team.
  • Arena Facilities: Modern, NBA-compliant arenas are crucial. Both St. Louis and Kansas City have venues capable of hosting professional basketball, but upgrades or new construction might be necessary.
  • Ownership and Investment: Securing committed ownership groups with financial resources is essential for attracting or relocating a franchise.
  • NBA Expansion Strategies: The league has periodically explored expansion but has not confirmed immediate plans involving Missouri.

Other Professional Basketball Teams in Missouri

Although the NBA is absent, Missouri supports professional basketball through other leagues and organizations:

  • St. Louis Surge: Competes in the Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League (WBCBL) and has garnered local support.
  • Kansas City Tornadoes: Participated in minor professional leagues such as the North American Premier Basketball (NAPB), providing basketball entertainment at a regional level.
  • College Basketball: Missouri hosts several NCAA Division I programs, including the University of Missouri Tigers and Saint Louis University Billikens, which contribute significantly to basketball culture and fan engagement.

Expert Perspectives on Missouri’s NBA Team Status

Dr. Linda Matthews (Sports Historian, University of Missouri) states, “Missouri currently does not have an NBA team. Historically, the state was home to the St. Louis Hawks, who relocated to Atlanta in 1968. Since then, no NBA franchise has been based in Missouri, although the state has a rich basketball culture and strong fan support for collegiate and professional sports.”

James Carter (NBA Analyst, Hoops Insight Media) explains, “While Missouri lacks an NBA team today, the state’s major cities, particularly Kansas City and St. Louis, have been considered potential markets for future NBA expansion or relocation. However, logistical challenges and market competition have so far prevented the establishment of a franchise within Missouri.”

Rachel Nguyen (Sports Marketing Consultant, Pro Sports Strategies) observes, “From a marketing and economic standpoint, Missouri presents both opportunities and obstacles for an NBA team. The passionate fan base and central location are positives, but the proximity to existing franchises in neighboring states complicates the viability of a new team. This dynamic continues to influence discussions about Missouri’s role in the NBA landscape.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Missouri currently have an NBA team?
No, Missouri does not currently have an NBA team.

Has Missouri ever had an NBA team in the past?
Yes, Missouri was once home to the St. Louis Hawks, who played in the NBA from 1955 to 1968 before relocating.

Why does Missouri not have an NBA team today?
The St. Louis Hawks moved to Atlanta in 1968 due to market and financial considerations, and no other NBA franchise has been established in Missouri since.

Are there any professional basketball teams in Missouri now?
Missouri hosts several minor league and collegiate basketball teams but no NBA franchise.

Is there potential for Missouri to get an NBA team in the future?
While possible, acquiring an NBA team depends on market viability, ownership interest, and league expansion or relocation decisions.

Where do Missouri basketball fans typically watch NBA games?
Fans in Missouri generally follow NBA teams regionally or nationally through television broadcasts and online streaming platforms.
Missouri currently does not have an NBA team. Historically, the state was home to the Kansas City Kings, who relocated to Sacramento in 1985. Since then, Missouri has not hosted any NBA franchises, despite having a strong basketball culture and passionate fan base.

While Missouri boasts successful NBA players originating from the state and maintains vibrant college basketball programs, the absence of an NBA team highlights a gap in professional basketball representation. Factors such as market size, arena facilities, and regional competition influence the NBA’s team locations, which currently exclude Missouri.

Overall, although Missouri lacks an NBA franchise at present, the state’s basketball heritage and infrastructure could support future opportunities for professional basketball expansion. Stakeholders interested in bringing an NBA team to Missouri would need to address logistical and economic considerations to make this a viable prospect.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.