Seattle Supersonics move approved for 08-09 only

Constable Echelon

From the Oklahoman:

NBA owners last week approved the relocation of the Seattle SuperSonics to Oklahoma City only for the 2008-09 season, a league spokesman said, and the team would have to submit two more relocation applications with the NBA if it is forced to remain in Seattle through 2010.

This strikes me as an interesting and significant twist. A revote next year provides another legislative session to build a new stadium. It provides another year to turn public opinion further against Stern. It provides another year for a proper lobby of every NBA owner on Seattle’s behalf.

That last point is important because in watching the national coverage of the Sonics’ plight last week, it seemed like no one really had the facts. That makes sense. The owners have no reason to not trust David Stern’s story. They’re busy people.

Another plus is a revote would force our local politicians to run on the Sonics issue come November.

Intriguing development.

Approval of relocation from Seattle to OKC was for 2008-09 only (Oklahoman)