NBA to Vote on Seattle Sonics Expansion Team The NBA is set to vote on whether to bring back the Seattle Sonics as an expansion team, marking a potential return to the city after 18 years. ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the league’s Board of Governors will hold a vote on March 24-25 to explore adding teams in Seattle and Las Vegas. If approved, the expansion would target the 2028-29 NBA season, with a growing number of owners now supporting the move. Charania emphasized that Seattle and Las Vegas’ market appeal, combined with a “parity-friendly collective bargaining agreement,” could create a strong purchase market for new franchises. The vote represents the first step in expanding the league to 32 teams. A final decision is expected later this year, requiring 23 of 30 governors to approve. NBA commissioner Adam Silver has previously stated that a decision on expansion will be made by the end of 2026. In December, Silver confirmed the league is evaluating both Seattle and Las Vegas, while also considering other markets. He cautioned against speculation, noting the process has been discussed for years. The absence of the NBA in Seattle since 2008 has been a topic of discussion. The Sonics were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, where they became the Thunder. Seattle’s hopes for a return were bolstered by the opening of Climate Pledge Arena in 2022, built on the site of the former Key Arena. The arena now hosts the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and is seen as a key factor in attracting the NBA back. The SuperSonics’ legacy includes their 1979 NBA Finals victory over the Washington Bullets, Seattle’s first major pro sports championship. Adding teams to Seattle and Las Vegas would require significant financial investment, with expansion fees potentially exceeding $6 billion.#shams_charania #nba #adam_silver #climate_pledge_arena #seattle_sonics
