The NBA expands into basketball's birthplace. The NBA Development League will bring a team to Springfield in the Fall. Springfield was added to the NBA D-League roster after officials decided to relocate the Anaheim Arsenal.

The league wanted to spread into New England and, in addition to Springfield's rich basketball history, officials say its size and location made it a slam dunk.

"You want a market just like this where the team is going to be a really big deal," says Team Owner Michael Savit. "It's not going to be in competition with major league teams."

The Springfield team is expected to have two major league affiliate teams, and despite rumors that the Boston Celtics will become partners with the new Portland, Maine team, officials say those decisions won't be made until the off season. Savit says he'll be happy with whatever teams he gets.

"It really doesn't matter who your affiliate is, it's that it's the NBA," says Savit. "You're watching NBA players whether they are Celtic players or not."

The team will play all home games at the MassMutual Center starting in November. And with ticket prices starting as low as five dollars, Savit says above all he wants it to be a venue geared towards family fun.

"When people leave the arena, especially kids, hopefully they will remember who won or lost, but that really isn't the most important thing," says Savit. "The most important thing is that they come, they enjoy themselves, the prices are affordable, and they have a great evening."

The team's name, mascot and colors will be announced sometime this Spring.'