NBA Expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas Gains Momentum with Governor Ferguson’s Meeting with Adam Silver
Seattle’s hopes for a return to the NBA are intensifying as Washington Governor Bob Ferguson prepares for another meeting with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, just before league owners convene to discuss potential expansion plans. The possibility of bringing basketball back to the city, alongside a franchise in Las Vegas, is gaining traction, fueled by recent discussions and a supportive state government.
Governor Ferguson Advocates for Seattle
Governor Ferguson met with Commissioner Silver via Zoom last month in what both parties described as an introductory conversation. According to a statement from Ferguson’s communications director, Brionna Aho, the governor, a lifelong Sonics fan who attended Lenny Wilkens’ basketball camp as a child, initiated the meeting to express his support for bringing an NBA team back to Seattle and offered state assistance. The NBA spokesperson, Mike Bass, confirmed the positive nature of the discussion.
NBA Considering Expansion Markets
The NBA has publicly acknowledged its interest in expansion, with Seattle and Las Vegas emerging as frontrunners. Commissioner Silver stated in December that the league is actively evaluating both markets, alongside others, but emphasized a desire to avoid misleading potential expansion cities. The league is scheduled to discuss expansion during meetings of the board of governors on Tuesday and Wednesday in Modern York.
Key Hurdles and Potential Ownership
A vote to initiate the expansion process requires the support of 23 of the 30 team governors. While expansion would increase league revenue, some owners may be hesitant to dilute their existing share of profits. The cost of a new franchise is estimated to exceed $7 billion. Seattle Kraken executives have been mentioned as potential owners for a Seattle-based NBA team.
State Support and Economic Considerations
Governor Ferguson has expressed the state’s willingness to assist in the expansion process, emphasizing that bringing the Sonics back is a priority. He dismissed concerns that the state’s recently passed “Millionaires Tax” – a 9.9% income tax on high earners – would deter potential players or owners, pointing to the high income taxes in states like California without apparent negative effects on attracting talent. He is scheduled to meet with Silver again on Monday afternoon.
A History of Hope and a Modern Arena
Seattle has been actively pursuing an NBA team since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. A previous attempt to secure a team in 2013, when the Sacramento Kings nearly moved to Seattle, fell short. However, the construction of Climate Pledge Arena, replacing the aging KeyArena, has addressed a major obstacle to bringing the NBA back to the city. Governor Ferguson highlighted his personal connection to the Sonics, recalling his childhood fandom and attendance at games.
The upcoming meetings and Governor Ferguson’s continued advocacy signal a renewed sense of optimism for Seattle’s chances of reclaiming its place in the NBA.