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Seattle Awaits Return of NBA Team After 18-Year Drought
Basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson rumored to be part of potential ownership group for Las Vegas expansion franchise
Mar. 18, 2026 at 12:12am
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After the Seattle SuperSonics were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, the city has been without an NBA team for the past 18 years. However, with the league's recent expansion plans, there is renewed hope that professional basketball could make a comeback in the Emerald City.
Why it matters
The loss of the SuperSonics was a major blow to Seattle's sports culture and economy. Regaining an NBA franchise would not only reignite fan enthusiasm, but also provide a significant boost to the local business community through increased tourism, merchandising, and other economic activity.
The details
The NBA has been exploring expansion opportunities, with Las Vegas emerging as a frontrunner for a new franchise. Basketball legend Magic Johnson is among the high-profile figures rumored to be part of a potential ownership group for the Las Vegas team, should the league decide to award an expansion slot there.
- The Seattle SuperSonics were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008.
- It has been 18 years since Seattle had an NBA team.
The players
Magic Johnson
A Basketball Hall of Famer who is rumored to be part of a potential ownership group for a new NBA franchise in Las Vegas.
What’s next
The NBA is expected to make a decision on potential expansion cities, including Las Vegas, within the next 12-18 months.
The takeaway
The potential return of the NBA to Seattle would be a significant milestone, not just for sports fans, but for the city's overall identity and economic vitality. The involvement of a basketball legend like Magic Johnson in a Las Vegas expansion team further underscores the league's interest in growing the sport's footprint in the western United States.
