Washington governor meets NBA commissioner for third time this year as Seattle expansion outlook dims
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson held a virtual meeting with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on Thursday — their third such meeting in 2026 — to advocate for bringing the Seattle SuperSonics back to the city. The NBA's expansion decision, expected by year's end, remains uncertain, with recent reports suggesting league owners are unenthusiastic about Seattle bids and that an expansion fee for the Las Vegas franchise could reach $10 billion. Silver has said the process could result in one new team or none at all, with any expansion team set to begin play in the 2028-29 season. Seattle Kraken owner Samantha Holloway is considered the leading candidate to head a Seattle ownership group, given that her company owns Climate Pledge Arena.
Silver has reiterated that the decision at the end of 2026 could deliver only one new team or none at all.
Why it matters
For brands: Sponsors and local businesses in Seattle stand to gain or lose significant commercial opportunities depending on the expansion outcome.
For media: A Seattle NBA franchise would open a new regional media rights market and affect national broadcast dynamics.
For athletes: Current NBA players and future free agents would have a new potential market if Seattle is awarded a franchise.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports
Sources
- Yahoo Sports: WA governor meets with NBA commissioner amid expansion doubts