Washington Governor Meets NBA Commissioner as Expansion Decision Nears

Discussions focus on potential return of SuperSonics to Seattle

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:45am

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Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on Monday, in what is seen as a pivotal step in the ongoing efforts to bring the SuperSonics basketball franchise back to Seattle. Neither side has released an official statement, but the meeting is interpreted as part of broader behind-the-scenes work to assess Seattle's readiness to support an expansion team if the league decides to move forward with expansion.

Why it matters

The return of the SuperSonics to Seattle would be a significant moment for the city, which has not had an NBA franchise since the team relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. The meeting between the governor and commissioner suggests the league is seriously considering expansion, with Seattle and Las Vegas as the only two markets under active consideration.

The details

Governor Ferguson described the discussion as "productive" and reiterated that bringing back the Sonics remains a "priority" for the state. The meeting comes just days before the NBA Board's annual meetings, where league owners are expected to consider whether to formally initiate the expansion process. Sports analysts say the discussion is part of broader efforts to assess Seattle's readiness to support a franchise, with the recently completed Climate Pledge Arena seen as a key factor in strengthening the city's bid.

  • The meeting took place on Monday, March 23, 2026.
  • The NBA Board's annual meetings are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, March 24-25, 2026, in New York City.

The players

Bob Ferguson

The governor of Washington state, who has made bringing back the SuperSonics a personal priority and has conveyed the emotional impact of the team's departure on the Seattle community to league officials.

Adam Silver

The commissioner of the NBA, who met with Governor Ferguson to discuss the potential expansion of the league and the possibility of the SuperSonics returning to Seattle.

Climate Pledge Arena

The newly completed arena in Seattle that has been described as fully NBA-ready, removing a key obstacle that had hindered previous efforts to restore the SuperSonics franchise.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.