The possibility of NBA expansion has been a staple of conversation for at least the last decade. A prime candidate mentioned consistently in these discussions is Seattle, a city that has yearned for the return of its beloved SuperSonics since their relocation to Oklahoma City in 2008. Despite the periodic hosting of NBA preseason games in Seattle, the city’s basketball enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting a more permanent solution.
Seattle’s Unfulfilled Promise
Seattle's history in the NBA is rich and storied. The SuperSonics, established in 1967, were a pillar of the community until their departure. Fans fondly recall the days when stars like Kevin Durant, who was drafted by Seattle in 2007 and spent his rookie season with the team, graced the court. For many, Durant's tenure is a bittersweet reminder of what was lost when the franchise moved. Word is, if the NBA finally grants Seattle an expansion team, the iconic SuperSonics name could very well make a comeback.
The sentimental aspect of this potential revival is significant. Sources reveal that "if a team was to return to Seattle, the Thunder would cede the Seattle history back to the SuperSonics—just as the NBA's Charlotte Hornets reclaimed the Charlotte-era history of the New Orleans Pelicans when Charlotte switched from being the Bobcats to the Hornets in 2014."
Las Vegas: A New Contender?
While Seattle remains a frontrunner, it isn't the only city vying for an NBA team. Las Vegas has entered the conversation as a potential expansion destination. The allure of Las Vegas, with its booming entertainment industry and proven track record of supporting professional sports, makes it a viable option. However, no official cities have been named yet for these prospective franchises, and speculation continues to swirl.
Timeline and Process
The absence of a public timeline for when the NBA might officially announce its expansion plans adds to the intrigue. Rumors abound that new teams could be added as soon as the 2027-28 season, but nothing has been set in stone. This uncertainty was highlighted during the recent annual fall Board of Governors meeting. League commissioner Adam Silver remarked that there was "not a lot of discussion" regarding expansion. Yet, he assured that "expansion is a topic the board plans to address this upcoming season."
Expansion has taken a back seat amid more immediate league priorities. The completion of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) last summer and the finalization of a television rights deal shortly thereafter have streamlined the league's focus elsewhere. However, the groundwork laid by these agreements provides a more stable foundation for future expansion discussions.
The Return of a Legacy
Should Seattle regain an NBA team, the responsibility of re-establishing the SuperSonics’ legacy falls into place in a manner reflective of the league’s respect for history. The Thunder did not bring any part of the Seattle SuperSonics’ historical accolades or identity to Oklahoma City. This act of leaving the legacy intact for a possible future return resonates with fans who hope to see their team's history honored appropriately, mirroring the way the Charlotte Hornets were able to reclaim their past.
The emotive anticipation for NBA expansion, especially from Seattle fans, lends a unique energy to the broader conversation about the league’s growth. As the league moves towards possibly introducing new teams, the collective memory of cities like Seattle could play a vital role in shaping the future landscape of the NBA.
As fans and analysts alike keep a close watch, the story of potential NBA expansion remains one of possibility, deep-seated fan loyalty, and strategic planning. If Seattle or Las Vegas gets the nod, it will not only alter the league's dynamic but also revive and begin new chapters in the storied histories of these passionate sports cities.