Stephen A. Smith: Nashville Rises in NBA Expansion Talks

0:00On March 18, ESPN analyst Steven A. Smith recently suggested Nashville as a smart pick for NBA expansion. He shared this take during a March 16 episode of First Take, highlighting the city's rapid growth and appeal. Nashville already boasts strong pro sports teams, including the NFL Titans, NHL Predators, and MLS Nashville SC. The city has eyed Major League Baseball expansion too, with its AAA Nashville sound strong crowds. Even Predators owner Bill Haslam, former Tennessee Governor, bid for a WNBA franchise, but came up short. Memphis leaders quickly pushed back against Smith's comments. The grises have called Memphis home since relocating from Vancouver in 2001, building a loyal fan base over two decades. Smith may clear he is not pushing for the grislies to relocate. Still, his remarked spotlight Nashville's booming economy and entertainment scene as prime for more basketball. As League expansion talks heat up, cities like Nashville keep entering the conversation, blending sports success with population growth.