The long-awaited return of the Seattle SuperSonics may finally be gaining traction. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed Tuesday that expansion discussions will be on the agenda at the next NBA Board of Governors meeting this summer, fueling speculation that the league could soon grow beyond its current 30-team format.
Seattle has been at the forefront of NBA expansion rumors for years, with fans and former players advocating for the return of the Sonics since the franchise relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. The city boasts a rich basketball history, a passionate fan base, and a modern arena in Climate Pledge Arena, which currently hosts the Seattle Kraken (NHL) and Seattle Storm (WNBA).
Silver has repeatedly acknowledged Seattle’s viability as an NBA market, stating that the league recognizes the city’s strong interest and infrastructure for a franchise.
While Seattle remains a favorite for expansion, Las Vegas has also emerged as a leading candidate. The city has successfully hosted NBA Summer League for years and has seen rapid growth in professional sports, with the Las Vegas Raiders (NFL) and Vegas Golden Knights (NHL) thriving in the market.
Silver has mentioned both Seattle and Las Vegas as potential expansion cities, though he has cautioned that the league is still in the early stages of evaluating expansion feasibility.
Expanding the NBA would require careful planning, particularly regarding talent dilution, financial implications, and media rights distribution. Silver has noted that adding teams would mean dividing revenue among more franchises, which is a key factor owners will consider in their discussions.
Additionally, the league must determine whether expansion would involve two teams (bringing the total to 32) or a single new franchise, which could impact scheduling and conference alignment.
The NBA Board of Governors meeting this summer will provide more clarity on the league’s expansion plans. While no official timeline has been set, Silver’s comments suggest that the Sonics’ return could be closer than ever.
For Seattle basketball fans, the dream of seeing green and gold jerseys back on the court may soon become a reality.
