Seattle leaders declare city 'ready' for NBA return as expansion talks move forward

SEATTLE, Wash. - Seattle leaders, former players and fan groups came together at City Hall Thursday to make their case for the return of the NBA, following last week’s league vote to explore expansion in Seattle and Las Vegas.

The NBA readiness roundtable, hosted by the City Council’s Transportation, Waterfront and Seattle Center Committee, also included the introduction of a resolution formally declaring Seattle ready for a franchise.

"Hear ye, hear ye, we’re not auditioning, we’re ready," said Seattle Councilmember Rob Saka during the meeting.

The gathering underscored growing momentum behind bringing back the Seattle SuperSonics, who left the city in 2008.

"Buckle up because today you’ll learn Seattle is not making a case, it’s making a declaration," Saka said. "We’re ready and willing to partner with the NBA to bring our Sonics back home once and for all."

Just a few miles away from City Hall, that sentiment was already visible during the Mariners Opening Day outside T-Mobile Park, where fans continue to show support nearly two decades after the team’s departure.

"Bring back the Sonics baby," shouted Jamie, who was there dressed in Mariners gear.

What they're saying:

For longtime supporters, the moment feels closer than ever — though still uncertain.

"I’m going to quote Cooper Kupp and say I am not smiling until there are three zeros in the clock…it’s a time for cautious enthusiasm," said Brian Robinson, co-founder of Seattle NBA Fans.

Even without a team for 18 years, fan interest has not faded.

"The fan base still exists. You see hats, you see T-shirts everywhere you go. People care," Robinson said.

City leaders and sports officials say Seattle’s infrastructure is already in place.

"I don’t think there’s anything more that we need to do to prepare, except to continue to stand at the ready for when that process begins," said Beth Knox, president and CEO of the Seattle Sports Commission.

Questions about the financial side of a potential franchise remain, but Knox said she doesn't foresee any delays.

"It’s been such a long time that there have been preparations for this," Knox said.

For former NBA player Spencer Hawes, the return of the Sonics would carry emotional weight beyond the court.

"It makes me sad knowing that there’s a generation, I call them, the lost generation of kids here in Seattle that didn’t get to experience that," Hawes said.

If a team does return, Hawes said, "I think I’ll probably come close to tears."

Robinson said the impact would go beyond sports.

"There will be a sense of closure, there will be a sense of healing," Robinson said.

If the Sonics return, Seattle would not only regain an NBA franchise — it would become the only city in the United States with nine professional sports teams.

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