Gov. Ferguson talks Sonics’ possible return with NBA commissioner Adam Silver

Key Points:

• Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson recently spoke with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to advocate for expanding the NBA back to Seattle, emphasizing his personal commitment as a longtime Sonics fan.
• The NBA is considering expansion to Seattle and Las Vegas, with a decision expected by the end of 2024, but Seattle currently has only one credible ownership group led by One Roof Sports and Entertainment and Seattle Kraken majority owner Samantha Holloway.
• The Seattle ownership group includes high-profile investors such as Melinda French Gates and Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, but the lack of multiple bidders in Seattle has raised concerns among league owners about the certainty of expansion there.
• Climate Pledge Arena, controlled by Holloway and One Roof, is viewed as a world-class venue ready to host an NBA team, but this control may deter other potential investors due to limited revenue opportunities from parking and concessions.
• The NBA aims to expand for the 2028-29 season, with franchise costs potentially exceeding $6 billion, and ownership of the arena is a significant factor in the financial viability for prospective Seattle team owners.