When it comes to Las Vegas, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Historically, this has even applied to the realm of sports. The city is known for being one of the world’s flashiest locations for major boxing title fights. Recently, it’s also rebooted its Formula One Grand Prix, which has added to the action and should continue for the next 10 years, showing that Las Vegas is attractive for multiple competitions.
But for traditional sports fans, there’s been little in the way of content in the City of Lights. At least, until recently. Back in 2017, the NHL launched an expansion team in the city, which opened the doors for a subsequent WNBA team and NFL squad. In either 2025 or 2028, the MLB will also set up shop near the Strip. And they have a small presence in the USL, with the Las Vegas Lights FC. But which has best represented the city and seen the most success? And which seasons were they most dominant?
Let’s dive into the best teams ever known to grace Vegas.
The Local Sport: Poker (1989)
Aside from boxing matches, poker is the only ‘sport’ to have graced the city consistently. Some of the most memorable moments include 1989’s WSOP Main Event battle when Johnny Chan sought to win his third consecutive bracelet—but the unforgettable character Phil Hellmuth stepped to dethrone him. However, now that the city is home to the Big Leagues, WSOP battles aren’t quite as flashy anymore.
Vegas Golden Knights (2018, 2023)
Moving on to traditional sports, Vegas’s brand new NHL team has taken the hockey world by storm. During their very first 2018 season, it looked like the Knights had what it took to win the Stanley Cup. The team won 13 games in the playoffs before bowing out to the Washington Capitals in the Finals. Despite the rough ending, it was a huge coup for the city.
This last year, the Knights lifted their very first Stanley Cup trophy. The win came against the Florida Panthers in only five games, making it a dominant win. This meant that the Knights met owner Bill Foley’s prediction—to make it to the playoffs within three years, then win the Stanley Cup within six.
Las Vegas Aces (2022, 2023)
The Las Vegas Aces set up shop in 2018. Though it’s taken them a bit longer to find their stride than the Knights, the Aces have since become one of the most popular and successful sporting attractions in the city. After two seasons in Vegas, the Aces first advanced to the Finals in 2020 where they lost to Seattle.
Last season, the team brought home their first WNBA Championship, along with the Commissioner’s Cup, thanks to their efforts in taking down Connecticut. They led the charge again this year, winning their second consecutive WNBA Championship after winning against New York. Earlier this year, the team also succeeded in nabbing a brand new part-owner: NFL superstar Tom Brady.
Las Vegas Raiders (2023)
When it was announced that the NFL would be moving its Oakland franchise to Vegas in 2020, local fans couldn’t be happier. However, things haven’t quite panned out for Vegas’s NFL team. Controversy has plagued the team, leading to multiple player releases and the sacking of Jon Gruden. In late October, coach Josh Daniels was also fired, along with GM Dave Ziegler.
On the field, the team’s performance has left much to be desired, as well. The team’s original season ended with an 8-8 record in 2020, then 10-7, and finally to 6-11 in 2022-23. This season, the Raiders bowed out of the playoffs with a final 6-8 record. However, now that there’s been a full clearing of the front office, many are hopeful that the Raiders will do better in the 2024-25 season. During this upcoming offseason, all eyes will be on the new hires—particularly, the incoming offensive coordinator position.
