Seattle’s basketball heartache has been a saga of longing and nostalgia, and as the NBA whispers about expansion, the Emerald City is buzzing with hope.
Seattle’s Hoops Heartbreak
It’s hard to believe it’s been 16 years since the SuperSonics packed up and left Seattle. The city, once a vibrant hub for basketball, has been left yearning for the return of its beloved team. Brent Barry, a former Sonics player, still feels the sting. After moving to San Antonio, he penned a heartfelt poem reflecting on his Seattle days. “I played in KeyArena, I live on Queen Anne Hill,” he wrote, reminiscing about pinball games at Shortyโs and burgers at Red Mills. It’s clear that Seattle left a mark on him, and he’s not alone in his sentiment.
Is Seattle Ready for a Comeback?
Ever since the Sonics’ departure, Seattle has been waiting, almost like a kid on Christmas Eve, hoping for the gift of an NBA team. With Adam Silver hinting at expansion, the city’s hopes are higher than ever. George Karl, who coached the Sonics to the 1996 NBA Finals, believes it’s time. “Thereโs just too much karma that says put a team back in Seattle,” he said. And honestly, I think he’s onto something. Seattle’s got the fan base, the spirit, and the history. What more could you ask for?
Mayor Bruce Harrell is also on board, championing Seattle’s case as a prime spot for a new franchise. “We need to make sure the decision-makers realize this is a very attractive market,” he emphasized. It’s like he’s saying, “Hey, NBA, we’re ready when you are!”
Since 2008, Seattle has been waiting, expecting an NBA franchise to return.
And now, with overtures of the first expansion since 2004, there is an overriding sentiment that the Emerald City is due.
Will the SuperSonics make a comeback?
โ The Athletic (@TheAthletic)
Expansion Dreams: Seattle vs. Mexico City
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: expansion. Adam Silver has made it clear that the NBA is looking to grow. While Mexico City has been floated as a potential site, Silver admits it’s a long shot compared to U.S. cities. “Being direct, itโs highly unlikely Mexico City would jump above US cities,” he said. Sorry, Mexico City, but Seattle’s got dibs!
During a recent game in Mexico City, Silver shared his vision for the league’s future. He’d love to see a team south of the border, but for now, the focus is on U.S. cities. And honestly, if Seattle doesn’t get a team soon, it might just be a crime against basketball.
So, what do you think? Is Seattle finally going to get its shot at redemption, or will the city continue to wait in the wings? One thing’s for sure: the passion for basketball in Seattle isn’t going anywhere. Could we see the SuperSonics rise again?
