Supersonics.com - Media day articles
Posted on Tuesday, October 2nd, 2007 at 12:15 am by Big Chris
Apologies for editing Chris’ update here. I have a question for the day and figured we did not need two threads.
So my question for the day is this: Based on size alone does Robert Swift justify his draft pick of 3 years ago? Granted he has yet to pan out, but there are a ton of variables that make good picks sometimes fail. IMO the biggest question about Swift has always been whether he would physically develop into the center the team needs and he has done so. The transformation is simply incredible if you saw Rob 2 years ago. You can look at him now and say “that was a great job of anticipating his physical growth by management.”
Drafts are weird. For all the criticism of Mo Sene we just saw Cedric Simmons traded for cap relief. While we wish that every pick turned into a great player sometimes you simply have to work with what was available and play the odds. The odds were that Swift would still be skinny right now.
If you have read SonicCentral.com for more than just the summer months, you know that we are fans of the writing of Kevin Pelton. Today Kevin has provided us with a couple of great articles on the heels of the Sonics media day. The first is about a Supersized Robert Swift. In that article Pelton has a great quote from coach P.J. Carlesimo:
“He’s going to be a very good player, there’s no doubt in my mind. He’s got to be given the room and the time for it happen.
The second article is about how the Sonics feel they are ready to have some great competition for playing time this training camp. KP pulls another great quote from coach P.J. Carlesimo:
“I don’t have a starting one,” Carlesimo said at Monday’s annual Media Day, asked if he has a starting five in mind. “Honestly. I think that’s a good thing. I think the players understand that.
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:36 am
“I feel great, knock on wood,” Szczerbiak said. “I’ve had a couple of tough years with surgeries the last two seasons [Szczerbiak had knee surgery in the summer of 2006]. That’s something I’ve got to do - just stay healthy. When I stay healthy, I can be a pretty good player in this league. That’s my focus this year.”
We’ll need him, that’s for sure.
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:17 am
Thanks for pointing out these articles. Nice read.
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:29 am
Lawsuits Update:
Even as two Sonics fans filed a class-action lawsuit Monday against the team’s ownership, Clay Bennett’s lawyers moved to keep the club out of court on another front.
The team’s Oklahoma-based ownership group filed a motion to stay last week’s lawsuit by the city of Seattle, asking King County Superior Court Judge Harry McCarthy to let the argument be decided through arbitration instead of in his courtroom.
A hearing on the motion to stay is scheduled for Thursday, without oral arguments.
In its motion, the team argues that wording in its KeyArena lease about arbitration is ambiguous and that Washington case law indicates a clear preference for arbitration instead of court decisions.
The team says the city’s lease interpretation in its lawsuit failed to mention a clause barring judicial relief and that, in any interpretation, the party seeking to avoid arbitration has the burden to prove the dispute is not subject to arbitration.
“The city cannot meet that burden here,” the motion concludes. “Frankly, it is not a close call.”
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/basketball/333913_arena02.html
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:48 am
“I feel great, knock on wood,” Szczerbiak said.”
He must’ve done more than knocked on it to feel so great.
After making juvenile jokes about Wally “The Bronze Bomber” Szczerbiak, I feel like watching Beavis & Butthead.
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:50 am
And Brian has a guy calling him out (post #2):
http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/sonics/2007/10/01/sonics_media_day#comments
October 2nd, 2007 at 6:21 am
Most of the answers coming from Sonics players were predictable, as they toed the company line established by Seattle’s new head coach, P.J. Carlesimo.
“They’re getting paid to play basketball and I’m getting paid to coach basketball,” Carlesimo said while he and new Seattle general manager Sam Presti were swarmed by a throng of media. “Having said that, I know (ownership group leader) Clay (Bennett) wants to be here and we want to be here, so I hope that comes about. But it’s not something we can do anything about. It’s not something I think we can let distract us from what we’re trying to do every day.”
But a few outspoken players, for instance returning point guard Earl Watson, strayed from the script.
“When you think of the Sonics, it’s kind of like a cornerstone of the NBA,” Watson said. “For me growing up it was always the Lakers, the Sonics, the Bulls, Boston and the Knicks. That’s just the way it was. I think Seattle deserves a team. And I hope a situation works out to where they stay.”
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:43 am
http://thedaily.washington.edu/article/2007/9/27/showSomeConcernSeattle
A Pro-SOS article in the daily!
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:56 am
Mloeffler -
I make decisions each day which I feel are in the best interest of the franchise. In the end because I am active I have to live with those decisions and the end results. I am sure that, if in the end we lose there will be chances to second guess actions but in the meantime we take well thought out action based on a lot of solid information.
The decision to time our release today was a tough one, for many of the reasons you described. Do we want to stear attention from basketball? NO.
Right now it is clear that they are doing everything in their power to stifle interest in this club. On draft lottery day Mr. Bennett was in Kansas City looking at arena options, then they filed their arbitration case a week before camp opened in an underhanded manner designed to allow Clay to slink in and out of town. With them taking those actions a simple blanket endorsement of “we won’t touch the basketball product” is not appropriate. We are at war here to save these teams.
Read Clay’s arbitration request and then read the court filing for our case. Then tell me which one is meritless. It is not a bit meritless and the attorney is not an ambulance chaser. His firm is highly regarded as one of the very best in the state and it was not the only one to want this case.
The comment I find most disheartening is this “All we can do is get excited about this team, and support them - and attend games” I have to assume that you are either a complete fatalist, or that you work for the team and were paid to write this. Believe me that happens.
We have a TON of power in this issue. The first step is protecting the three years because let me tell you, if they apply for relocation in October it does not matter a damn bit if we sell out every game this season. It does not matter if Kevin Durant averages 30 & 10 and we go to the WCF because they will have already made their move.
We’ll hold those three years and ensure that they are both costly and embarassing. In the meantime we’ll ensure that an arena solution and new ownership materialize before a chance for a relocation application happens. I encourage you to continue buying your tickets.
Nobody should just buy their tickets and be silent. Buy your tickets. Attend games with signs and protests, call the mayor, write the league, and demand that our political leaders provide a long term solution. That is the answer.
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:21 am
“Read Clay’s arbitration request and then read the court filing for our case. Then tell me which one is meritless.”
As far as I’m concerned, the arbitration request and the lawsuit are both meritless. My knowledge of the legal system is almost zilch, though, so my opinion is irrelevant here.
At any rate, I care more about the arbitration requset set forth by the Professional Basketball Club, LLC for several reasons. Collectively, we should focus most of our attention toward it.
Anyhow, Brian, that guy outdid me in the harshness department. Even I was impressed with his animosity.
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:42 am
“So my question for the day is this: Based on size alone does Robert Swift justify his draft pick of 3 years ago? Granted he has yet to pan out, but there are a ton of variables that make good picks sometimes fail. IMO the biggest question about Swift has always been whether he would physically develop into the center the team needs and he has done so. The transformation is simply incredible if you saw Rob 2 years ago. You can look at him now and say ‘that was a great job of anticipating his physical growth by management.’”
During the past few days, my anticipation for Robert Swift developing into an impact player this season has grown. That might be partially based upon my favorable bias toward his shaggy hairstyle, but I’ve nevertheless got him slated as having a breakout year.
Yet, aside from my praise of Swift, it’s pretty clear that Wally Walker and Rick Sund shouldn’t've passed on Al Jefferson. That’s not a matter of hindsight, too, since a lot of folks wanted Jefferson from the beginning. Oh well, that’s all in the past.
“Drafts are weird. For all the criticism of Mo Sene we just saw Cedric Simmons traded for cap relief. While we wish that every pick turned into a great player sometimes you simply have to work with what was available and play the odds. The odds were that Swift would still be skinny right now.”
I’d've dumped Mouhamed Sene for David Wesley’s partially guaranteed contract and cash considerations without giving it a second thought. Okay, that’s not quite true, for I might’ve also pawned the draft rights of Peter Fehse, Yotam Halperin, and Paccelis Morlende on Danny Ferry.
Good Times …
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:01 am
If it wasn’t for the considerable damage to the environment, I would wish for someone to go all Saddam on OKC and torch the oil wells ala Kuwait.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:12 am
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3046010
Damn those frivolous lawsuits!
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:45 am
That guy in the TNT blog is an obvious plant who hasn’t read any of the details of the case.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:46 am
“The team says the city’s lease interpretation in its lawsuit failed to mention a clause barring judicial relief and that, in any interpretation, the party seeking to avoid arbitration has the burden to prove the dispute is not subject to arbitration.
“The city cannot meet that burden here,” the motion concludes. “Frankly, it is not a close call.”
And we’ll go through every judge in King County Superior Court desperately trying to find somebody who agrees with us …
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:07 am
Brian - your response is right on, if everyone were like that TNT poster, it would only make Clay’s exit that much smoother. It seems that his stance is to sit back and accept whatever happens. It’s become overtly obvious that Clay’s group is intent on moving the team — any roadblocks, any hassles, that we as fans can put in their way of doing so is of benefit to our side. I love the fan lawsuit, love the idea of Clay, Aubrey, et al, needing to sit for depositions, that will get coverage, and continue to reveal the unseemly nature of their whole involvement here.
You and SOS continue to have my gratitude.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:33 am
“As far as I’m concerned, the arbitration request and the lawsuit are both meritless. My knowledge of the legal system is almost zilch, though, so my opinion is irrelevant here.”
Are you talking about the lawsuit to enforce the lease or the lawsuit by the fans? If you are talking about the one to enforce the lease, I’d love to hear your reasoning for why it is meritless.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:35 am
There is room for independent Sonic fans to disgree on tactics. It is a complicated and frustrating maze.
In the end there is much agreement on the main points.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:43 am
Swift at 280 still has to be tested for a season and for whatever predominant or total team playing style is put in place. So far no evidence about the weight hurting jumping or lateral quickness or courtspeed or endurance or ability to stay healthy but these things will be asked about and considered when organized play starts. I assume Swift has done more than weightlift just for strength but havent heard much about training focused directly on these other desired attributes.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:59 am
“Are you talking about the lawsuit to enforce the lease or the lawsuit by the fans? If you are talking about the one to enforce the lease, I’d love to hear your reasoning for why it is meritless.”
Basically, I stated that The Professional Basketball Club, LLC request for an arbitration hearining is bullshit. As it is, the Seattle Supersonics are legally obligated to play in the Key Arena through the 2009-2010 season; thus, Chairman Clayton Bennett should quit trying to connive his way out of the lease like a loutish carpetbagger.
Conversely, I stated that the lawsuit filed by some season ticket holders against the Professional Basketball Club, LLC is pure nonsense. It’s not like those folks deserve financial restitution or anything of that nature; they can attend every Seattle Supersonics contest that’s been paid for by them without the fear of raised ticket prices.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:10 am
In the P-I it says that a hearing for Bennett’s motion is on Thursday, when do you think will we know what the decision is?
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:43 am
I’d say late Thursday, Alex, or early Friday. But I’m not a betting man.
What about Wilcox, we haven’t heard anything about him or from him. I figured at least one of the ten articles written today would mention him, but noooo. I’d prefer Nick start so I guess this is good news in my book.
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:14 pm
OT - Can anyone get a link to Hollinger’s season preview for the Sonics on ESPN? I don’t have Insider, but I’d like to check it out.
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:14 pm
I’m really interested to see how rusty Robert Swift looks to open up the preseason.
If he’s not named opening night starter against the likes of Mo and Petro, my question will be answered…
I’m also curious to see how Thomas fits into the equation. Do you start Thomas so there’s at least some experience inside, do you let Swift take his licks until he gets the swing of things. Either way, I can’t wait to see how this team meshes throughout the season.
Go Sonics!!!! Wait, that’s not a good thing to say right now. I mean, stay Sonics and kick some arse!!
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:37 pm
I think Thomas should be the finishing center for the Sonics. Nick Collison is not as strong defensively against centers (opponent PER 19.4) as he is against power forwards (opponent PER 14.5). Kurt Thomas defends centers very well (opponent PER 15.4). However, the Sonics need Wilcox on the court because they are absolutely impotent offensively without Chris on the court (+7.5 Points Per 100/possesions). So I see a frontline of Wilcox and Thomas finishing games for the Sonics. The tandem could provide a nice offense-defense contrast.
October 2nd, 2007 at 12:49 pm
Anyone saw today’s Times article on Swift and his shot?
good god this kid looks like he will eat your child.
This is exactly the menancing image I want for our big man..
Now we just need to pry Rocky Bernard from the hawks - just to see him jumping on opposing point guards… That sack on Alex Smith was just outrageous if you feel me.
October 2nd, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Robert Swift looks like a tall, tall, oh so tall, red-headed Dorian Gray.
And I love it. Far cry from when he was drafted.
Who knows, if he comes in with a breakout season, and Wilcox takes another step forward, maybe Durant is not too far off in thinking playoffs.
Unlikely, but you never know.
Also, im interested in how the divisions will look if the Sonics are moved to Ok City. Shouldn’t they be put in with the Texas teams? If Stern does not have a headache right now, he deserves one.
October 2nd, 2007 at 2:04 pm
For anyone who has EPSN Insider check this out. John Hollinger put out his pre-season evaluations today and he says the following about the Sonics at the end of this evaluation.
“A lot of folks seem focused on who isn’t there — namely, Allen and Lewis — but the additions Seattle made should at least offset that. Durant adds a star right away, Thomas and Swift add a frontcourt dimension that was completely missing a season ago, and Szczerbiak and West can make up for some of the missing scoring from Allen. Besides, Green and Durant can’t defend the perimeter any worse than Allen and Lewis did.
As a result, I expect the Sonics to stay on the fringes of the Western Conference playoff chase for much of the season. If they get really lucky in close games, they might even slip into the No. 8 spot. One thing is for certain, though — anything they do on the court will be drowned out by the noise over a potential move. After paying their dues for 40 years without a single top-wattage superstar passing through, let’s keep our fingers crossed that folks in Seattle get to see more than one year of the Durant era. ”
That’s right, the same thing I’ve been saying for months. That the Sonics could be fringe playoff team, but most likely will finish exactly were they did last season (some where between 6th and 10th worst team in the league) with a 35-47 record. It also looks like Hollinger is like all of us SEATTLE supersonic fans hoping that we get more that just 1 year with Durant.
October 2nd, 2007 at 2:41 pm
Can we get a link to that Mcwalter?
October 2nd, 2007 at 2:58 pm
What did Hollinger say about Sonics the last few years? I don’t know, asking to help evaluate the quality of the predictor..
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:20 pm
I see Hollinger picked them 13th in the west last sesaon but so did almost everybody else. Wonder what he said before 04-05 season.
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:36 pm
Of the 5 biggest movers from 05-06 to 06-07 Hollinger got the 2 most obvious ones (Houston and Chicago), got Utah not not the extent and missed on Golden State and Toronto. Not bad.
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:45 pm
I see at least 3 false positives and at least one false negative in his 06-07 predictions but not bad.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/dailydime?page=dailydime-SeattlePreview0607
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:47 pm
Thank you Crow! My “work day” can now commence.
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:48 pm
“Conversely, I stated that the lawsuit filed by some season ticket holders against the Professional Basketball Club, LLC is pure nonsense.”
Is it legal to send out an advertising memo to your current customers for services you don’t plan on completing?
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:53 pm
Crow, thanks for posting the 06-07 preview from Hollinger.
Here is the insider link to the 07-08 preview
http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/trainingcamp07/insider/columns/story?columnist=hollinger_john&page=SuperSonicsPreview0708
I didn’t post earlier, because figured most people don’t have insider accounts. My bad…
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:54 pm
Also here’s the print screen link, which might get you guys who do not have insider accounts around that hurdle.
http://proxy.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=3046486&type=story
October 2nd, 2007 at 3:57 pm
“After paying their dues for 40 years without a single top-wattage superstar passing through, let’s keep our fingers crossed that folks in Seattle get to see more than one year of the Durant era. ”
Shawn Kemp says hello….
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:01 pm
The comment I find most disheartening is this “All we can do is get excited about this team, and support them - and attend games” I have to assume that you are either a complete fatalist, or that you work for the team and were paid to write this. Believe me that happens.
SOS seems to be sending mixed messages by getting involved with this suit. The previous message was that fans should still buy tickets and attend games. This suit sends the opposite message, whether or not that was the intent.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:02 pm
Nope, didn’t work. But thanks for trying Mcwalter.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:35 pm
“In the meantime we’ll ensure that an arena solution and new ownership materialize before a chance for a relocation application happens. ”
yea, like you did before the team was sold to the “outsiders”?
You seem to be a nice guy Robinson, but yo’re lips are getting stained pink by all the kool aid…
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:42 pm
Very disheartening:
“SOS seems to be sending mixed messages by getting involved with this suit.The previous message was that fans should still buy tickets and attend games. This suit sends the opposite message, whether or not that was the intent.” - Dick Tate
WADR, The only message this suit sends is that you should give consumers honest information when soliciting your product. That is the only way the consumer can make an educated decision.
Overthinking lawyers/wannabes:
I’ll ask again. Is it legal to solicit consumers with information you dont plan on holding true to??
It seems to be grasping at straws to opine that BR/SOS is trying to have it ‘both ways’. It’s funny that Bennett is really the only one with that with that agenda. Leave Brian alone. All he has ever done, IMO, has been for the good of us fans.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:43 pm
sorry if I confused any posting the 06-07 stuff but thought it was worth checking and letting folks see what what he said last year
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:44 pm
Producer, what the hell are you getting at. I think Robinson and SOS crew have been quite consistent that they want to work with the team to keep them here, but the team has treated them like trash. Again this is like a divorce were the wife is Bennett and co, the father is the City of Seattle and the kids are the fans of Seattle Supersonics. If the mother keeps threating to move home to OKC and even sues you get out at some point you at the perverbal father want to tell the bitch to screw here self and take the kids. Thing is we want to keep the kids and team here in the 206. In order to do so you got to so the wife or ownership that you mean business. So law suits against the team for fraud are great.
At the same time it’s to the Bennett and Co’s wants us fan not go attend Sonics games so that they can pull a Cleveland Indians from the Major League movie and claim that because the fans don’t care about the the team that they as owners have a right to move them to a city that does care. That’s why we have to go to as many games a possible.
So I don’t see the contradiction. Do you can to explain it to us, again.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:47 pm
That ‘kool aid’ phrase is so lame. What is it? The phrase of the new millenium or something. I think it fits right in with such terms as ‘bling bling’ and ‘LOL’. It reminds me of a 40something trying to stay current.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Bennett’s boyhood idol:
Robetr Irsay
Lets back up the trucks boys. It’s midnight.
October 2nd, 2007 at 4:54 pm
Marc Stein has Sonics 22nd overall and 11th in west
http://tinyurl.com/38gcsu
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:08 pm
In regards to the amendment to the lead to this thread, yes, I wish every pick would lead to something solid. And while Sene will probably be in the NBDL, we do have most of our draft picks for the past three years at least on the roster. However, I suppose Gelebale will not be on the 12 man roster at the start of the season? Or will Wilkins be left off? Got to be one of those two guys, right? This is assuming everyone is healthy for the season opener.
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:25 pm
It will be a bummer for somebody to not be on opening day active roster but I assume PJ will say it is a rotating assignment and not to make too much of it. Several other guys might see turns out it besides the ones you mention.
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:43 pm
Looks like Hollinger is predicting Sonics will win 35 this season
at bottom of this link
http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?s=a9d54d075cfc3e07f09cf6085ac34b26&t=78720
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:44 pm
10th in west, 4 games out of playoffs
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:44 pm
“In the meantime we’ll ensure that an arena solution and new ownership materialize before a chance for a relocation application happens. ”
yea, like you did before the team was sold to the “outsiders”?
You seem to be a nice guy Robinson, but yo’re lips are getting stained pink by all the kool aid…”
Yes, because if it hasn’t been accomplished already, it’ll never happen. Boy, I love that kind of logic.
At what point was the general public, or the fans for that matter, privy to who the Sonics were going to be sold to? I’m sure if we knew that they were going to be sold to out-of-towners, there would have been efforts made to prevent it, even if that were impossible.
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:47 pm
“1. HOU 61-21
2. SAS 59-23
3. PNX 54-28
4. DEN 53-29
5. DAL 58-24
6. UTH 50-32
7. LAL 43-39
8. NOH 39-43
9. GST 36-46
10. SEA 35-47
11. MEM 34-48
12. SAC 27-55
13. PRT 26-56
14. MIN 22-60
15. LAC 20-62 “
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:49 pm
WADR, The only message this suit sends is that you should give consumers honest information when soliciting your product. That is the only way the consumer can make an educated decision.
Overthinking lawyers/wannabes:
I’ll ask again. Is it legal to solicit consumers with information you dont plan on holding true to??
I’m certain every Emerald Club Member was aware of the phrase “12-month window” before making their purchase. They also knew if the team was here throughout the end of the lease, they’d be able to lock-in their ticket prices before each season without a price hike. They didn’t sign any contract where the terms wouldn’t be met, as you implied with your analogy in the other thread.
October 2nd, 2007 at 5:52 pm
http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/sonics/
The court battle between the City of Seattle and the Seattle SuperSonics continued this week.
On Monday the team filed a motion to stay the city’s lawsuit against the Sonics, seeking King County Superior Court Judge Harry McCarthy to permit the disagreement between the two groups over the KeyArena lease to be decided by arbitration.
In its motion the team argued that language in the lease agreement regarding arbitration is ambiguous. Further, Washington case law points to a preference for arbitration over court decisions.
The Sonics motion set a hearing for Thursday without oral arguments.
As required by the motion, the city filed a cross-motion in response asking the court to enforce language in KeyArena lease that states a specific performance requirement that the team play all of its home games in KeyArena until Sept. 30, 2010 must be decided in court, according to the city’s interpretation of the lease.
The city also filed an additional motion requesting oral arguments on the issue, with a new hearing date of Oct. 10.
McCarthy now must make a ruling on the ***two motions, deciding whether to allow oral arguments as the city requests, or no oral arguments as the Sonics’ motion seeks. ***
McCarthy could rule by the team’s Thursday request for a hearing date, or McCarthy could wait until the Oct. 10th date requested by the city to make his decision.
————————–
*** - I cant help but laugh at it. If Bennett is so confident he is right, why not have a oral argument? The city knows he is an idiot. He knows he is an idiot. I would love to hear this idiot fumble his words in his best Frank Gore impression, and deal with a debate from a well oiled master of his domain city dude.
October 2nd, 2007 at 6:18 pm
While I often enjoy your counter-arguments, Dick, I’m actually a little tired of your insistence on arguing against other Sonic fans. The negativity is starting to get to me…why are you trying to pick a fight with Brian/SOS? I realize you may have some valid concerns and arguments, but you seem to relish taking the other (i.e., Clay’s) side and won’t let the arguments go.
October 2nd, 2007 at 6:20 pm
How can the Sonics even make the statement that they will guarantee ticket prices thru 2010 in one breath and then say we want out by 2008? If they dont plan on being here isnt that about as deceptive a statement you can possibly make? What sense does it make?
Again, is it legal to solicit people with information you dont plan making possible? Why even put the mention of 2010 prices in your solicitation when your plan is to move by 2008? What f^cking sense does that make? Greedy deception is the only logical answer no matter what kind of spin a lawyer would want to put on it. Let’s call it what it is.
Let me go guarantee some construction prices to my clientele thru 2010 if they buy now while I make plans to move to Hawaii next year. What the f^ck kind of busuness does that? Unethical as all hell.
October 2nd, 2007 at 6:20 pm
Additionally, we should all ignore Producer. OKC folks should find their own message boards. They are not Seattle SuperSonics fans. By the way, nice Sooners game last weekend.
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:00 pm
I realize you may have some valid concerns and arguments, but you seem to relish taking the other (i.e., Clay’s) side and won’t let the arguments go.
I actually planned on staying out of this topic during the month of October and hoped to only talk about the team as well as arena solutions. I didn’t do too well on that pledge, lol.
Aside from the Sonics, I have always despised frivolous lawsuits and that’s how I view this. Nothing personal.
On top of that, the timing sucks! IMO, this only lessens interest in the upcoming season and encourages season ticket holders to sue for a refund. Shouldn’t this have at least waited until after Bennett actually files for relocation? Or wins arbitration? Or wins the lawsuit? Or has his relocation request granted? Or actually leaves town? Something… anything that actually indicates the team won’t be here until 2010? This is jumping the gun big time.
We need a new arena deal NOW. Not sometime between Nov 2007 and Sept 2010. We still have a month left to work something out with Bennett. Keep the eyes on the prize and we may… just may, never have to have these types of conversations ever again. Nothing would make me happier.
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:21 pm
I agree with Hollinger regarding Denver winning the Northwest Division, if Iverson and Camby remain healthy and Nate Robinson doesn’t successfully bait Carmelo Anthony again. I would disagree vehemently about the seven-win drop-off for the Phoenix Suns and the twelve-win drop-off for the Dallas Mavericks. I would also be hesitant to rate Houston primarily on the the addition of an unproven international player.
October 2nd, 2007 at 7:35 pm
Dick Tate said:
“I actually planned on staying out of this topic during the month of October and hoped to only talk about the team as well as arena solutions. I didn’t do too well on that pledge, lol.”
Dick, next time try making a “stone-cold pledge” with yourself.
Works every time for me.
Oh, and quit parroting the Oct 31st deadline stuff - you’re way too smart to fall for Clay’s rhetoric. I told you before: the NBA’s deadline to file for ReLo isn’t until 3/1/08, then it goes to Stern for his review and subsequent recommendation, and only then does the BOG see it - which pushes us out to May-June. That’s plenty of time for everything to come together for an arena.
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:10 pm
Will Bennett still be open to a deal after Oct 31 and wait until the deadline to file? Maybe, but it’s not certain. I don’t like uncertainties… they make me nervous. What is certain is Bennett saying he still wants a deal and he wants it by Oct 31 or else. So until then, i’ll buy into the rhetoric and hope something positive happens.
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:15 pm
I disagee with Houston as a #1 seed and expect them to be more like 4-6. Other than that my biggest variance from Hollinger would be I think Sacramento has pretty good chance to do better, perhaps in neighborhood of 35-39.
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:26 pm
I think Hollinger is underrating the Jazz quite a bit. I expect them to have home court in the first round. I also think he overrates the Nuggets. AI & Anthony are a bad match, imo.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:02 pm
“Dick, next time try making a “stone-cold pledge” with yourself.
Works every time for me.
Oh, and quit parroting the Oct 31st deadline stuff - you’re way too smart to fall for Clay’s rhetoric. I told you before: the NBA’s deadline to file for ReLo isn’t until 3/1/08, then it goes to Stern for his review and subsequent recommendation, and only then does the BOG see it - which pushes us out to May-June. That’s plenty of time for everything to come together for an arena.”
Well, I too have grown tired of Dick’s constant negativity. But it’s really only because he’s right to question all these things and I hate being reminded of the OTHER possibilities. Besides Courtsense, you more than offset Dick’s negativity with your optimism on all things regarding the future of the Sonics. I think there’s plenty of unanswered questions still.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:12 pm
“Aside from the Sonics, I have always despised frivolous lawsuits and that’s how I view this. Nothing personal.
On top of that, the timing sucks! IMO, this only lessens interest in the upcoming season and encourages season ticket holders to sue for a refund. Shouldn’t this have at least waited until after Bennett actually files for relocation? Or wins arbitration? Or wins the lawsuit? Or has his relocation request granted? Or actually leaves town? Something… anything that actually indicates the team won’t be here until 2010? This is jumping the gun big time.
We need a new arena deal NOW. Not sometime between Nov 2007 and Sept 2010. We still have a month left to work something out with Bennett. Keep the eyes on the prize and we may… just may, never have to have these types of conversations ever again. Nothing would make me happier.”
I agree one-hundred percent.
Instead of directing our attention to the asinine lawsuit that’s been filed by a few mindless season ticket holders, let’s focus our attention toward preventing the Professional Basketball Club, LLC from finagling its way out of the Key Arena lease through the upcoming arbitration hearing. Plus, some affluent individuals from around here who’ll privately finance the construction of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose facility — with the aid of some public funding via the Washington State Legislature — needs to step up here in the near future; otherwise, the Seattle Supersonics won’t exist beyond the 2009-2010 season.
It’s not about sticking it to Clay Bennett; it’s about keeping the team in the Pacific Northwest. Apparently, some of y’all have forgotten that by letting your emotions get the best of yourselves.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:16 pm
unanswered questions, yes, my first wild guess is one I floated as a former contributor here a year and a half ago.
http://thesesttlesupersonics.blogspot.com/2007/10/first-guess-john-mccaw.HTML
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:29 pm
Mr. Baker. The link doesn’t work, at least for me it doesn’t.
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:32 pm
as usual this board is taken up with the minutia of the timing of lawsuits and their practical application.so much so that captain of soss,brian is spending time and wasting energy on frivilous matters.why not spend it on the important matter which once again ill state to this board and you mr.robinson.to wit the influencing of the people who truly matter to this issue.the politicians.when will you understand that you have at your disposal an army of computor nerds and bball junkies who could mount a very effective campaign to try and sway the govenour and legislature.when will you realize that the more you delay this obvious move you limit its effectiveness.i applaud all youve done and am not here to quibble about anything youve done.but it is the politicians of this state and city who will determine the outcome,against the wishes of the majority of voters in this state that you must target.anything else at this point will only further drain the resources and energy of your orginasation and if you fail to do this anything you will have done will go to waste!!!!
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:34 pm
ooops, typing on this iphone is a work in progress for me.
No copy/paste on the iphone, no, I’m not kidding.
john mccaw
Http://theseattlesupersonics.blogspot.com
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:43 pm
“when will you understand that you have at your disposal an army of computor nerds and bball junkies who could mount a very effective campaign to try and sway the govenour and legislature”
Well, I think that was about this time last year. Where have you been?
October 2nd, 2007 at 9:56 pm
Dick Tate–
Why do you feel AI and Anthony are a bad match? They played pretty well together last season. The challenge in Denver is getting a rock solid surrounding cast around them. I’ve always felt that Iverson needs to have a lot of solid defenders around him to be successful because of his size eventhough he’s pretty amazing.
————————————————–
As far as our team goes, it’s still too early to tell with Robert Swift. But, IMO there’s a lot of reason for optimism. I also have always felt that he would thrive if he added some muscle mass to his frame, and he’s finally done that. He kind of came into the league as a scarecrow. He still looks like he weighs a little bit less than the 270-280 he’s listed at, but, that’s because it’s all lean body mass. I’m impressed. Now, he just has to get the job done on the court, but, he’s already being recognized as the strongest guy on the team.
I’m getting more and more excited about this team. I may be a homer, but, the stress on defense has to help…as well as having a running coach in Westhead. I don’t think that Coach Hill really stressed defense enough last year. But, if Wally S. doesn’t get back on D in transition, I’m sure Carlismo wouldn’t hesitate to pull him out of the game.
I love that the players are actually having to earn their minutes again. I’m not sure if I really was convinced that Petro earned his starts over Collison last year. I think that Swift can actually earn the starting center position based on his strength and abilities in a fair way that the players can accept.
I still like the West, Durant, Green, Collison, Swift lineup, but, I’m starting to like Watson more and more.
You had to love Watson’s quote today when he stated that Seattle was a cornerstone of the NBA just like Chicago, NY, and LA, and that we deserved to have a team here. That plus the fact that Durant has been impressed by him; he seems to want to take on a leadership role. We need a guy to organize scrimmages, team barbeques, teach defense, etc. like Derrick McKey used to do back in the day. (McKey was always a favorite of mine.)
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:02 pm
Dick Tate Says:
October 2nd, 2007 at 8:10 pm
“Will Bennett still be open to a deal after Oct 31 and wait until the deadline to file? Maybe, but it’s not certain. I don’t like uncertainties… they make me nervous. What is certain is Bennett saying he still wants a deal and he wants it by Oct 31 or else. So until then, i’ll buy into the rhetoric and hope something positive happens.”
Dick, do you honestly believe that if Bennett files for ReLo on 10/31/07 - knowing full well that Stern and the NBA BOG won’t even begin to review the request until after 3/1/08 - and then an arena/funding package is presented on, let’s say 1/15/08, that Bennett (and Stern and the BOG) would just say “sorry - it’s too late now. We wanted this 3-1/2 months ago, we won’t even consider it now. Out of the question. We’re moving. It’s over. Don’t even show it to us. La-la-la-la-la, we can’t see it.”
Riiight.
Because that’s such a smart way to run a mega-gazillion dollar business like the NBA. Sure, over the past year, Bennett has proven himself to be nothing if not a complete, colossal TOOL.
But David Stern? The BOG? I gotta think those guys are a little smarter than your average…Okie tool.
Yeah, I’m optimistic (thanks for the compliment, Ballaholic) but some of this shit is just obvious - isn’t it? Is it me? Am I crazy?
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:18 pm
“So I don’t see the contradiction. Do you can to explain it to us, again”
Sure. The local’s had their chance to buy the team the first second and third time this franchise was sold, but none of them made an offer good enough to get it done(since everyone thinks Shultz to be a clutz, I guess we do not classify him as local?). Why? Don’t know fors ure, but since this board is full of personal speculation instead of fact, I take a whack and say because NO ONE CARES.
Now Mr. Robinson thinks if I just get 3 more years I can get this team sold to local ownership cuz Bennet will have to sell on the cheap and we will have a new stadium and everything will be rosy. I say that is a bunch of baloney. The City doesn’t care, The State doesn’t care and the irony is Mr Robinson is now a back slapping pal of people who could care less if we have any sports franchises in this city. And by the way, let’s sue the franchise with frivolous ticket owner lawsuits.
Nice.
My point is 3 years is not going to change the culture and bias of city leadership or the emphathetic populace. The reason this franchise doesn’t make money and the reason why Starbucks sold was because they cannot make money and NO ONE CARES. This recent flag waving from the council about honoring the lease is just another grandstanding event with no real long term benefit other than making themselves look good to the We CAN SPEND OUR MONEY ON MORE IMPORTANT THINGS contingent.
Bennett, while certainly not the most polished or media adroit business owner I have seen, is driving the hard bargain that no one else either had the guts or the will to do.
So yeah, go ahead and keep suing and walking around blasting the ownership group while letting the City dimwits off the hook. That will really make a difference. Soon, you will be another LA, a city who thought it was too important to negotiate with a team and never considered it could lose it.
All I know is that Bennett has put together a great front office with bright guys who exhibit leadership and experience.
Have not seen that in a long while. Too bad if we miss out on what they can accomplish.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:22 pm
“Additionally, we should all ignore Producer. OKC folks should find their own message boards. They are not Seattle SuperSonics fans. By the way, nice Sooners game last weekend. ”
Why not. Seems to be par for the course that you would rather call someone a OKc folk instead of face the real facts. Gee, maybe if we ignore him he will go away. Hmm, maybe if I ignore my bills they will go away.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:24 pm
“That ‘kool aid’ phrase is so lame. What is it? The phrase of the new millenium or something. I think it fits right in with such terms as ‘bling bling’ and ‘LOL’. It reminds me of a 40something trying to stay current. ”
Brilliant observation. I can’t wait to read your posts.
October 2nd, 2007 at 10:50 pm
You guys should ease up on the OK bashing. I don’t blame you, but it’s not like Seattle is a great happy place. Isn’t it the suicide capital of the u.s.? Delonte West is already sad because of all the rain.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:14 pm
“well,i think that was about this time last year,where have you been”?
yes and tell me what concerted,cordinated action,email-wise have you been asked to participate in?
ive been a reader of this blog for longer then that and have yet to see any recognition or in fact much discussion of the realities of this situation.i have no problems with discussing ball,but too much time is spent talking ad naseum about clays this and that.like its even that important and then today i see mr robinson is now spending time on this blog and another one defending a lawsuit that may or may not be frivolous or may or may not be ill timed.
most importantly ive yet to see this board or mister robinson grasp the most simple of facts.it is the politicians we must target.yes there are independent emails sent,yes the petition drive did succedd in moving the city councill to energize itself),so please dont think that i am not aware and appreciative of these actions.but ive yet to see any action that fully utilizes the assets sitting(literally),here taken to do so!action that recognizes that the battlefield has now moved.and its not the courts that will save this team.it is the money that the state has to come up with,otherwise the arena will never get built and bye bye sonics.it is this lack of understanding that has made me post this
ive been a sonic fan and follower since their first season.ive lived and died by this team for all of its 40 years.i would be incredibaly saddened if they leave.but im not so attached that i cant look and understand why bennett does what he does and that if they move life goes on.mr robinson said it quite well(im paraphrasing)better to do something now before its over then watch it get done and wish youd of done something.im only argueinng for doing whats now the intelligent thing.
as long as im riding this,has anyone looked at the schedule and circled the dates when we’ll have national tv,and planned public or inside the key demonstrations.any plans to get the queen ann businesses heavyly involved(present them to the legislature?).there are many avenues of public displays that would raise the issue(and many different ideas)to keep it on the minds of the powers to be.its now time to organize what we have and use it effectively.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:18 pm
Dick, do you honestly believe that if Bennett files for ReLo on 10/31/07 - knowing full well that Stern and the NBA BOG won’t even begin to review the request until after 3/1/08
It’s hard to find articles on the relocation process, so please excuse being subjected to a couple of Okie articles… it was all I could find atm.
http://newsok.com/article/3096190/
If they build it, they will stay.
If not, the NBA relocation process will commence.
It goes as follows:
1. Apply for relocation in writing directly to the commissioner. The application must identify the proposed location.
2. Within 10 days of receiving the application, the commissioner appoints a relocation committee consisting of no less than five governors or alternate governors from the league.
3. Within 120 days of receiving the application, the committee must make a recommendation to the entire board of governors.
4. A vote is taken by the board, no sooner than seven days and no later than 30 days after the report is delivered by the relocation committee. A simple majority vote approves relocation.
http://newsok.com/article/2774359/?print=1
Frank said the NBA’s relocation process is as follows:
A franchise applies for relocation.
NBA commissioner appoints relocation committee consisting of at least five members of league’s board of governors (currently has 30 members, one for each team).
Relocation committee reviews application for roughly a four-month period.
Relocation committee makes formal recommendation to the league’s board of governors.
Board of governors votes within a month. A simple majority (16 of 30 votes) is the minimum requirement.
This could all be over by the end of March. Anyway, until November, i’m making my stone-cold pledge to give it a rest.
-*-*-*-*-
James, I don’t think either AI of Carmello are very good about sharing the ball, which I think will keep them from reaching the next level. Also, Kenyon Martin is coming back, so that’s bound to not help, lol.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:20 pm
This will end up being a double post but I forgot about the double link mod filter:
Dick, do you honestly believe that if Bennett files for ReLo on 10/31/07 - knowing full well that Stern and the NBA BOG won’t even begin to review the request until after 3/1/08
It’s hard to find articles on the relocation process, so please excuse being subjected to a couple of Okie articles… it was all I could find atm.
[http://newsok.com/article/3096190/]
If they build it, they will stay.
If not, the NBA relocation process will commence.
It goes as follows:
1. Apply for relocation in writing directly to the commissioner. The application must identify the proposed location.
2. Within 10 days of receiving the application, the commissioner appoints a relocation committee consisting of no less than five governors or alternate governors from the league.
3. Within 120 days of receiving the application, the committee must make a recommendation to the entire board of governors.
4. A vote is taken by the board, no sooner than seven days and no later than 30 days after the report is delivered by the relocation committee. A simple majority vote approves relocation.
[http://newsok.com/article/2774359/?print=1]
Frank said the NBA’s relocation process is as follows:
A franchise applies for relocation.
NBA commissioner appoints relocation committee consisting of at least five members of league’s board of governors (currently has 30 members, one for each team).
Relocation committee reviews application for roughly a four-month period.
Relocation committee makes formal recommendation to the league’s board of governors.
Board of governors votes within a month. A simple majority (16 of 30 votes) is the minimum requirement.
This could all be over by the end of March. Anyway, until November, i’m making my stone-cold pledge to give it a rest.
-*-*-*-*-
James, I don’t think either AI of Carmello are very good about sharing the ball, which I think will keep them from reaching the next level. Also, Kenyon Martin is coming back, so that’s bound to not help, lol.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:21 pm
Drat! Moderation again! Oh well, read it in the morning.
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:51 pm
In a roundabout way I agree with what bballdeluxe says.
Thank god the season is underway, because it’s getting pretty frustrating and tiresome waiting for a sliver of good news on the arena/local ownership front - and something substantial besides the City or the fans or this group or that group suing Bennett.
I’m all for the locals getting in Bennett’s grill - no problem there, and I can see the wisdom of the various legal strategies. I know these things unfold in time. I’ve proposed numerous theories of how these things will move in our favor. Great - I get that part.
But where is even the slightest tidbit or morsel of substance as far as who’s doing what behind the scenes to save this freaking team? There are a handful of media guys who keep speaking in double super-secret code, saying “there are a couple of groups out there with arena/ownership proposals forthcoming…it will happen.”
Yeah? Where will it happen? The Center? Bellevue? Auburn? Who are we talking about? What are they waiting for? Where’s the leak, the rumor, the “nudge nudge” inside scoop? Where’s something, anything, that a fan can grab onto for hope - other than just the sheer inevitable logic of Bennett stupidly sowing the seeds of his own destruction?
Hello? Is anybody in there? I want names. I want dates. I want places. I want some measure of certainty, as DickTator says.
In the immortal words of Dr. Evil: “throw me a frickin’ bone!”
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:52 pm
I din’t know much about the reloction process going into this, but some people had said that David Stern couldn’t stop a move, because the it was the BOG that would approve a move.
Dick’s post cornfims something I’ve thought all along- that the most imoprtant player in this is David Stern. He appoints the 5 member relocation committee which makes a formal recomendation to the BOG. We’ve got to get Stern on our side!
October 2nd, 2007 at 11:56 pm
Producer–
You seem to kind of miss the point that Robinson has UNITED politicians with SOS on some issues like A Deal Is A Deal. The fact is whether you’re conservative or liberal or believe in new taxes or private or public ownership of an arena, he has united people in the basic idea that a deal is a deal and the team needs to honor their lease at Key Arena. That’s what good leaders do; they unite people.
I can understand your possible frustration with the recent lawsuit by the fans, and I would tend to agree with those who feel that the lawsuit isn’t going to go anywhere. However, the attempt to try to escape from the lease by Clay Bennett is equally ridiculous. Are fans stooping down to his level and losing some of their dignity by filing the suit? Maybe.
Are the fans determined not to lose their team? Absolutely. Plus, the assertion that politicians don’t care is a bit overboard now that Slade Gorton has become involved. He has continuously stressed the 40 year history of the team in this city, and he has begun to articulate the ideas and themes that fans have been voicing for a while now.
The gist of the message of Gorton and the fans is simple: Clay Bennett can’t be trusted. We could have a great arena plan ready, but, IMO he would not even sit at the negotiating table. That’s what is disgusting.
My question to you and anyone who thinks that simply having an arena plan is the answer is: Do you believe Aubrey M. or do you believe Clay? Slade Gorton believes Aubrey, and so do I. We have to play hardball now.
October 3rd, 2007 at 12:32 am
http://www.spmsportspage.com/images/NBA/2007/Seattle-Sonics-Media-day-10-01/Chuckarelei_B085.html
His legs look thicker. Seems like he won’t get moved around a lot anymore. Also looks like he’s visited the beauty salon; straight hair instead of curly now.
October 3rd, 2007 at 9:05 am
“Sure. The local’s had their chance to buy the team the first second and third time this franchise was sold, but none of them made an offer good enough to get it done(since everyone thinks Shultz to be a clutz, I guess we do not classify him as local?). Why? Don’t know fors ure, but since this board is full of personal speculation instead of fact, I take a whack and say because NO ONE CARES.”
No, most of the owners in Schultz’s group didn’t want to sell. Nobody would buy the team without a new arena & a long term lease in place. You’re a troll, and an ignorant one at that.
October 3rd, 2007 at 9:30 am
Producer - NBA by laws state that if you lease is coming due (I think it’s within 5 years) that you cannot sell to a local ownership group without a new lease being in place. So to say that we had 3 shots at selling to local owners is BS, because nobody, not Bennett, not Sabey, not Larry Ellison would have bought the team and agreed to stay another 5 to 10 more years in the Key Arena.
Furthermore, I do think people care about the Sonics. Just like there are people who care about the Opera House, about Benaroya symphony hall, about Sound Transit project about the Via duct, about 520 bridge, etc. What is evident is that Mr. Producer doesn’t care if the Sonics leave. Which begs the question why is posting on this website? I don’t know, but some part of me believe that he’s a fair weather fan and that if the Sonics were a playoff (note: Hollinger thinks they might be a couple of lucky breaks into being the 8th seed) that he’d be on board with building them a new stadium. By the way I wonder if Producer is a Mariners or Seahawks, since either of those teams should be in Seattle using his People Don’t Care argument.
October 3rd, 2007 at 1:31 pm
James, another reason to doubt Denver (btw, I love Eric Williams’ new daily TNT blog feature where he links articles to the NW Division sites):
Short people have plenty of reason to live on with the Nuggets.
The Nuggets no longer have 5-foot-5 reserve Earl Boykins, but they soon might unveil the NBA’s smallest starting backcourt. Six-foot Allen Iverson is a starter and 5-11 Chucky Atkins is the leading candidate to be the other.
“There are a lot of big ‘two’ guards in the league and they’re going to try to post them up,” center Marcus Camby said. “We have to cover those guys’ backs.”
If Iverson starts at shooting guard and Atkins at the point, the average size in the backcourt would be 5-11 1/2, 3 inches smaller than the next tiniest NBA unit. If coach George Karl starts 6-1 Anthony Carter instead of Atkins, the average size would barely top 6 feet.
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nba/article/0,2777,DRMN_23922_5713236,00.html
October 3rd, 2007 at 2:37 pm
“No, most of the owners in Schultz’s group didn’t want to sell. Nobody would buy the team without a new arena & a long term lease in place. You’re a troll, and an ignorant one at that.
My point! Until that happens, it’s not a viable enterprise and no owner, local or not, is going to be happy here. If the arena issue had been dealt with properly, Bennett would not be in our lives right now.
October 3rd, 2007 at 2:44 pm
“What is evident is that Mr. Producer doesn’t care if the Sonics leave. Which begs the question why is posting on this website? I don’t know, but some part of me believe that he’s a fair weather fan and that if the Sonics were a playoff (note: Hollinger thinks they might be a couple of lucky breaks into being the 8th seed) that he’d be on board with building them a new stadium. By the way I wonder if Producer is a Mariners or Seahawks, since either of those teams should be in Seattle using his People Don’t Care argument. ”
I do care and I want the Sonics to remain the Seattle Super Sonics, not the OKC Sonics or Las Vegas Sonics or Anaheim Sonics.That’s why I want to solve the problem instead of avoid it.
October 3rd, 2007 at 3:04 pm
“That’s why I want to solve the problem instead of avoid it.”
What exactly have you done to solve the problem? Seems like you just want to tell people how they should approach the issue. Brian Robinson, whether you aggree with his actions or not, is one of very few Sonics fans to actually do something to keep the teams here. I haven’t heard of any other Sonics fan group fighting to keep the team here. So if you’re really not doing anything positive to keep the team here, what’s the difference between that and just “avoiding it”?
October 3rd, 2007 at 5:33 pm
“Brian Robinson, whether you aggree with his actions or not, is one of very few Sonics fans to actually do something to keep the teams here. ”
Not denying that. If I lived in Seattle I would definitely put my public servants on notice that they have a voter problem if they did not craft a true solution.
Speaking of what people are doing to devise a solution, where was all this passion and vitriol before the Bennett era?