From Sin City to Win City. Once simply a haven for sports betting, Las Vegas is now a destination for the world’s biggest sporting events and beloved professional teams.
The squads that have taken up residence on the famed Las Vegas Strip are not just household names in the community, but they are ascending the ranks of global sports fandom and collecting trophies along the way.
Professional Las Vegas Sports Teams
Las Vegas has quickly amassed a collection of winning teams from multiple professional sports leagues, offering something for every fan to experience. Here’s a look at the teams you’ll want to see in action on and around the Strip.
Vegas Golden Knights
Since arriving in 2017 as an NHL expansion team, the Vegas Golden Knights have taken the hockey world by storm. The squad advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals in their first year of existence and won the Cup in 2023 — their sixth year. With a collection of “Golden Misfits” players at their core, including Conn Smythe Trophy winner Jonathan Marchessault and center William Karlsson, the Golden Knights have become fixtures in the Las Vegas community and one of the most exciting teams in professional ice hockey.
Las Vegas Raiders
The arrival of the Las Vegas Raiders in 2020 marked a monumental moment for the city. As a National Football League (NFL) team, the Raiders have expanded their fan base beyond their California roots, attracting fans from across the country to experience the excitement of NFL games in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Aces
The 2022 WNBA Finals winner, the Las Vegas Aces are a force to be reckoned with in women’s professional basketball. With star talent such as two-time Most Valuable Player A’ja Wilson and fuelled by a passionate fan base, the Aces bring thrilling basketball action to the city.
Las Vegas Lights
The Las Vegas Lights Football Club is a professional soccer team playing in the United Soccer League Championship (USL). Known for their high-energy matches and lively atmosphere, the Lights have captured the hearts of soccer fans in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Aviators
The Las Vegas Aviators, a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team, offer a classic baseball experience in a picturesque setting. Their home games at the Las Vegas Ballpark provide an opportunity to enjoy America’s favorite pastime while taking in the stunning desert landscape.
Las Vegas Sports Arenas
Las Vegas boasts world-class sports arenas that offer top-notch facilities and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the notable venues in the city.
T-Mobile Arena
As a multi-purpose indoor arena, T-Mobile Arena hosts a wide range of sporting events, including professional basketball, hockey, and boxing matches. It is also a popular venue for concerts and other entertainment events.
Allegiant Stadium
The state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium is the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. With a seating capacity of over 65,000, this impressive venue offers an immersive experience for NFL games and other major events.
Michelob Ultra Arena
Michelob ULTRA Arena is a prominent entertainment venue located at Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino on the Strip. It is home to the WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces, and hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, award shows, and live performances. The arena offers a spacious seating capacity and modern amenities to provide an unforgettable experience for attendees.
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Situated within the MGM Grand Resort, the MGM Grand Garden Arena is renowned for hosting high-profile boxing matches, mixed martial arts (MMA) events, and concerts featuring top artists from around the world.
Las Vegas Ballpark
A baseball fan’s paradise, the Las Vegas Ballpark is a modern stadium designed to provide an exceptional viewing experience. It is the home field for the Las Vegas Aviators and offers a range of amenities for fans to enjoy. Las Vegas Ballpark has won the fan vote for favorite Triple-A baseball stadium multiple times.
Thomas & Mack Center
The Thomas & Mack Center is a multipurpose arena located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. It has hosted numerous sporting events, including basketball, rodeo, and professional wrestling.
Las Vegas Sporting Events
Nascar
NASCAR in Las Vegas has become synonymous with thrilling races, passionate fans, and an electrifying atmosphere. The Las Vegas Motor Speedway has established itself as a premier destination for NASCAR events, attracting drivers, teams, and spectators from around the world.
The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sight of cars racing side by side create an adrenaline-fueled experience like no other. Fans flock to Las Vegas to witness the intense battles on the track, whether it’s the high speeds on the 1.5-mile tri-oval or the exciting finishes that keep spectators on the edge of their seats. The city’s vibrant entertainment scene and hospitality add an extra layer of excitement, making NASCAR in Las Vegas an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Formula One
In an exciting development for motorsport enthusiasts and fans around the globe, Las Vegas has been officially confirmed as a host city for Formula One starting in 2023. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the city, as it joins the elite roster of Formula One destinations, known for their high-octane races and glitz-filled events.
Las Vegas, renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene, iconic landmarks, and luxurious resorts, is a perfect fit for the glamour and excitement of Formula One. The city’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, including its exceptional road networks and world-class facilities, ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience for teams, drivers, and fans.
With the inclusion of Las Vegas on the Formula One calendar, the city will witness the pinnacle of motorsport prowess as the world’s top drivers compete on the thrilling circuit. The race is set to take place on a bespoke track that weaves through the heart of Las Vegas, showcasing the iconic Strip and its dazzling lights as a backdrop for the high-speed action.
Formula One not only promises an adrenaline-fueled race in Las Vegas but also a week-long extravaganza of events and celebrations. The city will come alive with parties, concerts, and celebrity appearances, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. Las Vegas has a proven track record of hosting major events, and with Formula One’s unique blend of sport and entertainment, the city is poised to deliver an unparalleled experience for fans and spectators.
UFC
Las Vegas serves as the home base for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the world’s leading mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. The city hosts numerous UFC events throughout the year, featuring elite fighters from different weight classes competing in thrilling bouts. Fans can witness intense octagon action at renowned venues like T-Mobile Arena and the UFC Apex facility.
Boxing
Las Vegas has a rich boxing history, and the city continues to host some of the biggest and most highly anticipated boxing matches. Legendary venues like the MGM Grand Garden Arena have seen iconic fights, featuring boxing greats such as Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, and Canelo Alvarez. Las Vegas remains a top destination for boxing fans who crave the electrifying atmosphere and memorable matchups.
Professional Bull Riding
For fans of adrenaline-pumping rodeo action, Las Vegas hosts the Professional Bull Riding (PBR) World Finals. This thrilling event brings together the best bull riders from around the globe, who showcase their skills and bravery in their quest for the coveted PBR championship. The PBR World Finals is a must-see spectacle for those seeking an authentic Western experience.
NFR (National Finals Rodeo)
Known as the “Super Bowl of Rodeo,” the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) is the pinnacle of professional rodeo competitions. Held annually in Las Vegas, this ten-day event features top cowboys and cowgirls competing in various rodeo disciplines, including bull riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and more. The NFR offers an unparalleled experience for rodeo enthusiasts and captures the true spirit of the Wild West
Where to Watch Sports
Las Vegas provides an abundance of options for sports fans seeking the perfect spot to catch their favorite games and matches. Whether you’re looking for sports bars, sportsbooks, or lively venues, the city offers something for everyone. Here are some popular places to watch Las Vegas sports.
Sportsbooks
Las Vegas is renowned for its sportsbooks, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of sports betting while watching live events on massive screens. Major resorts and casinos along the Strip, such as Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, and Wynn Las Vegas, have state-of-the-art sportsbooks that offer a comfortable setting to enjoy the action.
Sports Bars
The city is dotted with sports bars that cater to Las Vegas sports enthusiasts. These establishments offer a vibrant atmosphere, multiple screens showcasing various games, and a wide selection of food and beverages. Some popular sports bars in Las Vegas include Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Club, Lagasse’s Stadium, Blondie’s Sports Bar & Grill, and Born and Raised.
Casino Lounges
Many of the city’s hotel casinos have lounges equipped with large screens and comfortable seating, allowing visitors to watch sports in a more relaxed setting. These lounges often provide food and drink service, creating a luxurious experience for Las Vegas sports fans.
The Future of Las Vegas Sports
Looking ahead, Las Vegas shows no signs of slowing down when it comes to sports. The city’s growing reputation as a sports destination, coupled with its state-of-the-art venues and enthusiastic fan base, paves the way for an exciting future. Here are some key aspects shaping the future of Las Vegas sports.
Expansion of Professional Teams
Las Vegas has already experienced significant growth in professional sports with the arrival of the NFL’s Raiders and the NHL’s Golden Knights. The city continues to be a prime location for potential expansion or relocation of other major sports franchises, including Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association, fuelling anticipation for new teams calling Las Vegas home.
Oakland A’s Relocation
Excitement reverberates throughout Las Vegas as the news of the confirmed relocation of the Oakland Athletics to the city becomes a reality. The decision marks a historic moment for Las Vegas, as it secures its first Major League Baseball team.
The arrival of the A’s signifies a significant milestone in the city’s sports evolution, further solidifying its status as a premier sports destination. Fans eagerly anticipate the opportunity to cheer on their beloved team in the Strip’s new state-of-the-art ballpark, creating an electric atmosphere that will rival any in the league. The move not only brings the thrill of the first professional Las Vegas sports team in baseball to the city but also promises economic growth and increased tourism, as fans from near and far converge on Las Vegas to witness the A’s in action.
The confirmed relocation of the Oakland A’s to Las Vegas cements the city’s standing as a major player in the sports world and signals a new era of sporting excellence for the community to embrace.
