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Governor's Bid for Sonics: NBA Expansion Meeting Held
6 Nov
Summary
- Governor Ferguson met with NBA Commissioner Silver for the third time this year.
- The NBA is considering expansion for Las Vegas and Seattle, with a decision by year's end.
- Expansion fees may exceed previous estimates, potentially impacting Seattle's bid.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson continued his push for the Seattle SuperSonics' return in a virtual meeting on Thursday with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. This was their third such discussion this year, following earlier meetings in February and March that coincided with the league officially opening expansion talks with Las Vegas and Seattle.
The NBA is expected to make a decision on expansion by the end of 2026, with new teams potentially beginning competition in the 2028-29 season. While Las Vegas has multiple interested bidders, Seattle faces potential challenges, including higher expansion fees that could reach up to $10 billion. Governor Ferguson remains optimistic, emphasizing that Seattle has a strong bid and the necessary arena.
Seattle has been without professional men's basketball since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. Previous attempts to bring an NBA team back, such as the potential move of the Sacramento Kings in 2013, did not materialize. The league owners are reportedly concerned about the return on investment for a Seattle expansion team.
