By David Danzis / Las Vegas Review-Journal
One of the leading contenders for a future Las Vegas NBA arena moved beyond speculation Thursday, with VICI Properties executives saying they are working with Caesars Entertainment on plans for a venue behind three Strip resorts.
Speaking during the company’s second-quarter earnings call, VICI President and Chief Operating Officer John Payne said the real estate investment trust is working with Caesars on plans for an arena behind Paris, Horseshoe and Planet Hollywood hotel-casinos.
“I think everyone has seen in the news that the NBA is looking to put another team into Las Vegas,” Payne said. “There are many people bidding on that team. We own, in conjunction with our partner Caesars, and we’re working with them, 50 acres of land behind Paris, Horseshoe and Planet Hollywood, and we are developing a plan with Caesars.”
The land in question is several distinct plots totaling roughly 40 acres, although the trio of resorts also have buildable land abutting the parcels. The site has long been viewed as one of the Strip’s largest undeveloped parcels. Portions of the property are used by Formula One to stage the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and the site is also home to the BattleBots Arena. Nearly two decades ago, the same plot of land was presented as a possible site for a Major League Baseball stadium when the Montreal Expos were in the running to relocate to Las Vegas.
Payne discussed the project while describing VICI’s ongoing work with existing operating partners, saying the proposed arena is one example of how the company is pursuing future development opportunities. Earlier in the call, Payne cited the possibility of an NBA franchise as another factor supporting Las Vegas’ continued growth.
Source: Las Vegas Review-Journal, July 30, 2026. Reported by David Danzis.