Councilmembers disappointed by rejection of Hansen bid to purchase Sacramento Kings

May 15, 2013

Summary

Gossett, McDermott encouraged NBA knows Seattle is ready for return of Supersonics

Story

Metropolitan King County Council Chair Larry Gossett and Council Budget Chair Joe McDermott said today the NBA was reminded that this region is still a viable location for an NBA franchise. The National Basketball Association’s Board of Governors rejected the proposed sale and relocation of the Sacramento Kings to Seattle.

“This is a tough loss, but we’re encouraged by just how far we’ve come in the last year,” said Gossett. “Mr. Hansen has put Seattle back on the NBA map, and I know it’s a matter of when—not if—that the Supersonics will return.”

“I'm disappointed by today's decision. I know the work will continue,” said Councilmember McDermott. “Mr. Hansen's vision has brought us this far, and I look forward to the Sonics returning to Seattle.”

The league opposed the sale of the Kings franchise to a group led by Chris Hansen and Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, who would have relocated the franchise to Seattle.

Gossett and McDermott thanked Hansen and Ballmer for their effort and are encouraged that both expressed an interest in continuing the effort to bring the NBA back to Seattle.

Last fall, the County Council gave its unanimous approval to the final memorandum of understanding (MOU) and interlocal agreement (ILA) that established a process for the County, the city of Seattle and ArenaCo to make future decisions related to the potential development, construction and operation of a proposed arena in Seattle’s SODO district.