State CapitolThursday, November 5
Gov. Ferguson meets the NBA commissioner Thursday about bringing the Sonics back
The Daily Olympia team
If you've been waiting on the Sonics, this afternoon matters. Gov. Bob Ferguson will meet virtually with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and at the state Capitol Wednesday he said, "I still remain optimistic." His office reached out to set up the meeting.
Ferguson's talks with Silver come as the NBA aims to decide on expansion by year's end
- FebruaryFerguson talks with Silver the week of the Super Bowl.
- MarchThe NBA board of governors votes unanimously to explore expansion in Las Vegas and Seattle.
- Nov. 5Ferguson and Silver are set to meet virtually.
- Year's endThe league says it intends a final expansion decision before the end of the calendar year.
Sources: The Spokesman-Review, The Seattle Times
Ferguson called Seattle's offer "strong" and said the city checks "each and every box that the NBA could possibly hope for." The One Roof Sports and Entertainment bid has been viewed as the only viable one for Seattle, while three groups have bid in Las Vegas. A decision on the Las Vegas group is expected soon.
- Possible first season: 2028-29
- Expansion fee reportedly $7 billion to $10 billion
- Silver in March: "absolutely a chance" expansion doesn't happen
32teams in the NBA if Seattle and Las Vegas both join
The league would grow from 30 teams.
Source: The Spokesman-Review
Sources: The Spokesman-Review, The Seattle Times