How Many NBA Teams Are in California? (2025)

By Sarah Miller · June 30, 2046

There are currently 4 NBA basketball teams in California: the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings.

Overview of NBA Teams in California

California is home to four professional NBA franchises, making it one of the most represented states in the league. These teams are spread across major metropolitan areas, contributing significantly to the league's West Coast presence and cultural influence.

Current NBA Teams Based in California

Los Angeles Lakers (based in Los Angeles)
Los Angeles Clippers (based in Los Angeles)
Golden State Warriors (based in San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland/San Francisco)
Sacramento Kings (based in Sacramento)

Historical Context and Relocations

While California currently hosts four teams, the state has seen franchise movements over the decades. For example, the Clippers moved from San Diego to Los Angeles in 1984. The Warriors originally played in Philadelphia before relocating to San Francisco in 1962 and later moving their primary operations to Oakland, then returning to San Francisco in 2019.

Why Only Four Teams?

Despite being the most populous U.S. state, California has only four NBA teams due to market saturation, arena logistics, and league expansion strategies. Los Angeles supports two teams due to its massive media market, while Northern California is served by the Warriors and Kings, covering a broad geographic region.

Team	City	Arena	Conference	Founded	Championships
Los Angeles Lakers	Los Angeles	Crypto.com Arena	Western	1947	17
Los Angeles Clippers	Los Angeles	Intuit Dome (2024) Crypto.com Arena (until 2024)	Western	1970	0
Golden State Warriors	San Francisco	Chase Center	Western	1946	7
Sacramento Kings	Sacramento	Golden 1 Center	Western	1948	1

Table data source:1, 2

The table highlights that all four California-based NBA teams compete in the Western Conference. The Lakers lead in championships with 17 titles, followed by the Warriors with 7. The Clippers remain the only team without an NBA championship as of 2025.

Geographic and Market Influence

California's NBA teams play a pivotal role in the league’s national television schedule due to their access to large audiences and entertainment industry partnerships. The Los Angeles market alone supports two teams, reflecting its status as the second-largest media market in the U.S.

Future Expansion Possibilities

As of 2025, the NBA shows no immediate plans for expansion, but growing interest in markets like Las Vegas or Seattle may delay any new franchises in California. However, sustained success from existing teams keeps California central to NBA strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions About NBA Teams in California

How many NBA teams are in California?

There are 4 NBA teams in California: the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings.

Which cities in California have NBA teams?

NBA teams in California are located in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento.

Do the Lakers and Clippers share an arena?

Yes, both Los Angeles teams shared Crypto.com Arena until 2024. The Clippers are moving to the new Intuit Dome in Inglewood starting in 2024–2025 season.

Which California NBA team has won the most championships?

The Los Angeles Lakers have won the most championships among California teams, with 17 titles as of 2025.

Has any other city in California ever had an NBA team?

No other city in California currently hosts an NBA team. Historically, the Clippers played in San Diego from 1978 to 1984 before moving to Los Angeles.