The NBA is the premier professional basketball league in the world, featuring the most elite talent and passionate fanbases across North America. For new fans and veteran followers alike, a central question is often: how many teams are in the NBA, and how are they organized?”
As of the 2025–26 NBA season, there are exactly 30 teams in the league. This composition includes 29 franchises based in the United States and one based in Canada. These 30 teams are split evenly into two conferences—the Eastern and Western Conferences—and further divided into six geographic divisions.
NBA League Overview: Quick Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total NBA Teams | 30 |
| United States Teams | 29 |
| Canadian Teams | 1 (Toronto Raptors) |
| Conferences | 2 (Eastern & Western) |
| Divisions | 6 (3 per Conference) |
| Teams per Division | 5 |
| Regular Season Games | 82 per team |
How the NBA Is Structured
The NBA uses a symmetrical format to manage its grueling 82-game regular season and the high-stakes playoffs. The league is divided into the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference, each containing 15 teams. Within these conferences, teams are grouped into divisions to foster regional rivalries and streamline travel.
Eastern Conference (15 Teams)
The Eastern Conference features some of the most storied franchises in sports history, concentrated primarily along the Atlantic coast and the Great Lakes region.
Atlantic Division
- Boston Celtics
- Brooklyn Nets
- New York Knicks
- Philadelphia 76ers
- Toronto Raptors
Central Division
- Chicago Bulls
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Detroit Pistons
- Indiana Pacers
- Milwaukee Bucks
Southeast Division
- Atlanta Hawks
- Charlotte Hornets
- Miami Heat
- Orlando Magic
- Washington Wizards
Western Conference (15 Teams)
The Western Conference covers a vast geographical area, from the Pacific coastline to the Rocky Mountains and deep into Texas.
Northwest Division
- Denver Nuggets
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Utah Jazz
Pacific Division
- Golden State Warriors
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Phoenix Suns
- Sacramento Kings
Southwest Division
- Dallas Mavericks
- Houston Rockets
- Memphis Grizzlies
- New Orleans Pelicans
- San Antonio Spurs
FAQ’s
Is there an NBA team in Canada?
Yes, the Toronto Raptors are currently the only NBA franchise located outside of the United States. They joined the league in 1995.
Are there 32 teams in the NBA yet?
Not yet. While the NBA Board of Governors is expected to discuss expansion in their March 2026 meetings, the league officially remains at 30 teams for the current season.
Why does the 30-team format matter?
The current structure ensures a balanced schedule where every team plays 82 games, meeting every other team in the league at least twice. This stability allows for the “Play-In Tournament” format, where teams ranked 7th through 10th in each conference compete for the final playoff spots.
