Las Vegas has seen numerous minor league sports teams come and go over the years, unable to replicate the success of the Triple-A baseball team, the Las Vegas Aviators. While teams like the Silvers, Outlaws, Thunder, and Gladiators have faded away, the Aviators have thrived thanks to their $150 million stadium in Downtown Summerlin.
The Howard Hughes Corp. and an $80 million naming rights deal with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority helped create the nearly 10,000-seat Las Vegas Ballpark, which opened in 2019. This new stadium revolutionized the business model for the Pacific Coast League team, leading to a significant increase in season ticket sales and the introduction of luxury suites that opened up new revenue streams.
Don Logan, the president of the Aviators, attributes the team’s success to their strong community ties and affordability. Unlike other minor league sports teams that have come and gone in Las Vegas, the Aviators have built a loyal fan base by partnering with local businesses and nonprofits.
The addition of major league sports teams like the Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Aces, and Las Vegas Raiders to the city’s sports landscape has not directly competed with the Aviators’ fan base. Logan believes that baseball’s deep connection with people has contributed to the team’s longevity in Las Vegas.
Looking ahead, the Aviators are preparing for the arrival of their Major League affiliate, the Oakland Athletics, in 2028. The A’s plan to move into a new $1.5 billion stadium on the Strip, which could potentially impact the Aviators’ ticket sales. However, Logan remains optimistic about the team’s future, emphasizing the affordability of their games and the strong community support they have garnered over the years.
In contrast to the Aviators, the Vegas Golden Knights have embraced the community since their inception in 2017. By establishing a strong presence in Summerlin and investing in youth hockey programs, the team has seen a significant increase in the number of players participating in local leagues. The Knights’ decision to bring an AHL affiliate to Henderson has further strengthened their ties to the community and provided more affordable hockey options for fans.
The Knights have also expanded their sports portfolio with the addition of the Vegas Knights Hawks, an indoor football team, and the Vegas Thrill, a women’s indoor volleyball team. These new teams, along with the upcoming Las Vegas Desert Dogs in the National Lacrosse League, will call the Lee’s Family Forum arena home, showcasing the Knights’ commitment to growing sports in the region.
Overall, the success of the Aviators and the Golden Knights in Las Vegas demonstrates the importance of community engagement and affordability in building a strong fan base. By investing in the local community and offering accessible sports entertainment, these teams have solidified their presence in the competitive sports market of Las Vegas.
