SEATTLE — It’s a great day to be a basketball fan in the Emerald City. The NBA’s Board of Governors says the league can formally explore a possible expansion into Seattle and Las Vegas.
It didn’t take long for reactions to begin pouring in from city leaders and athletes about the possible return of the Seattle SuperSonics.
Here’s what we’ve seen so far:
For two decades, Washingtonians have mourned the loss of our Sonics. Today’s vote is a milestone in the effort to bring NBA basketball back home.
— Governor Bob Ferguson (@GovBobFerguson) March 25, 2026
The time is right. The state-of-the-art Climate Pledge Arena already hosts professional basketball and hockey with the Storm, Kraken,… https://t.co/fQhRjtYIgb
I look forward to new generations of Sonics fans coming to know Lenny Wilkens in the way we have — a giant in Seattle sports, and an inspiration to the community. pic.twitter.com/bREYUrVbsc
— Governor Bob Ferguson (@GovBobFerguson) March 25, 2026
Duhhhh! I need in on front office/ownership https://t.co/dctqdQlivH
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) March 25, 2026
We’ve worked so hard for so many years. Thanks for riding with us this entire time. Let’s continue to rally support! Let’s continue to show our SuperSonics pride! We’re ready for the NBA to #BringBackOurSonics! pic.twitter.com/iPAIJagrUe
— Seattle SuperSonics (@BringBackSonics) March 25, 2026
Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho issued the following statement on today’s news about the possible expansion of the National Basketball Association (NBA) to Seattle:
“The NBA’s announcement today is a welcome step toward returning men’s professional basketball to Seattle. While we know this is one step in the process, it’s an exciting day. The region is ready. Fans are ready. Climate Pledge Arena is ready and was specifically rebuilt to accommodate an NBA franchise. Sports and entertainment are essential social and cultural binders, creating not only shared experiences but substantial economic impact for our region. The Port continues to support the great efforts and partnership between arena ownership and the City of Seattle to bring professional sports, world-class entertainment, and community connection to the heart of Seattle.”
KIRO 7 will continue to add to the list as more people react to the news.
What’s next?
Before you get too excited, it is important to note: the process of adding new teams to the NBA is long and complicated. Here is a look at how an NBA expansion would work.
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