Move Approved, Pending Lease Litigation
Posted on Friday, April 18th, 2008 at 12:20 pm by Xteve
Very important distinction there.
Mark Cuban and Paul Allen are smart businessmen.
Remember a league is only as strong as its weakest franchise.
No settlement, no buyout, do not pass GO, do not collect $200.
See you in court Clay.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
The game is getting started!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Burn in hell Bennett and Stern!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Steve and I apparently posted threads nearly simultaneously, so I deleted mine. Thanks for moving your commenting over to this thread.
Big Chris
April 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Not many thought this had a chance in the first place. Still an uphill battle IMO but I will not give up my faith!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
“The game is getting started!”
You took my line! LOL!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
God…Stern always sounds like half drunk and just rambles…..Such a smug bastard. I sooooo wish I could punch him, kick and inflict any damage I could.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Pending litigation? so do you think they consciously took into account the fact that Shultzs’ lawsuit might win?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
I am really disappointed how this vote went down. I know it was a long shot that it would go anywhere, but being someone who lives in Sacramento I am really disgusted and just now more spiteful of the Kings ownership. I am also surprised that Larry Miller from the Jazz went with the crowd as well.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Nice question!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Email just sent by Danny Barth
“Today the NBA Board of Governors voted to approve the Professional Basketball Club, LLC’s application to relocate the Sonics to Oklahoma City.
The immediate future of the team, however, is still uncertain as we now await the outcome of the June federal court trial over the KeyArena lease.
When the trial concludes, you will be contacted on the next steps regarding your account. We appreciate your support of the franchise and will continue to keep you informed.
Danny Barth “
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Good question Essex!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Essex Porter totally shut Stern up.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
After hearing this speach….all I can think of is the Violent Femmes song….
LIES, LIES, LIES!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
And 1 more time…. Screw you Gregoire!
If you had taken a stand and led the effort 2 months ago in Olympia we would have had the arena funding done & we would have had Slade G. &/or Ceis in NYC this weekend pouring on the pressure to these owners face to face to reject this move. It would have been a different dynamic entirely - who knows what would have happened.
Oh well - we move on - but she dropped the ball then and this week she pulled a “Webber” as BR outlined earlier in the week.
No guts - no vision from our GOV.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
Congrats to the two guys. F**k the rest of the owners. I was prepared for it but I’m still pissed. I don’t have the energy to watch the playoffs
BRING THE LAWSUITS ON!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Stern is now saying that the City was against the Sonics, while the Gov and Ron “Backstabber” Sims were allies.
What a Crock!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
How needs to follow this up with an injunction, and file his case.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
I can’t listen to David “Elmer Fudd” Stern talk anymore. He makes me want to throwup all over myself. Burn in Hell Stern!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
what did essex ask? .. and what did stern say>?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
“Pending litigation? so do you think they consciously took into account the fact that Shultzs’ lawsuit might win? ”
Of course they did. They can’t let him move and then risk collectively stepping in metaphorical dogsh!t in three months if the court finds they have to stay through 2010.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
What question?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Can someone summarize some of the press conference question and answers for those of us who can’t watch?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Funny how Stern keeps saying the same 3 or 4 teams when he talks about how voters pass legislation
April 18th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
“How needs to follow this up with an injunction, and file his case. ”
Agreed, that needs to go down ASAP.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Was that just a lie? Did he say Bennett tried the Muckleshoot plan?
WTF? Didn’t clay not even return their calls?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
What question did Essex Porter ask?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
They are playing it on KJR too.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
He claims CLAY reached out to the Muckleshoots?!?!?!?!?!
LIES, LIES, LIES, LIES
April 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Steve,
I was referring to the Schultz lawsuit not the cities. Because the city lawsuit is the one that can hold them here for the lease correct? But Schultzs could make them sell the team
April 18th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Can someone tell Gregoire that we DON”T NEED another team! What is wrong with her?
And where was Ballmer 2 years ago, when Sonics was for sale?
I still hope our Sonics stay in Seattle!
Oh, and this year elections, I am democrat, but I’ll vote for Rossi, Gregoire and other procastinators can say good bye.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Postureduck Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
What question did Essex Porter ask?
He said that after 41 years what just happened to Seattle, should other cities be worried?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
No we don’t know Stern. Tell us.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
That was a brutal LIE. God damnit.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
I think Stern’s pride and smug stubbornness will come back to bite him if he really thinks that they can just wait out the 2 years on the lease and play out the string. I think he underestimates the black eye that this situation will continue to bring to the league for those 2 years.
I sincerely hope that Nickels plans on sticking to his guns the entire time. I’m personally willing to take my chances on a staring contest with Stern and see who blinks first. Especially when additional dirty laundry about this situation is revealed in court.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
“The economics of team ownership…in most circumstances…require public assistance….That’s the model that seems to work.”
In other words, the model is broken.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
“Stern is now saying that the City was against the Sonics, while the Gov and Ron “Backstabber” Sims were allies.
What a Crock! ”
Remember Stern is for all practical purposes the Mouth of Sauron here. His job is to instigate and divide and conquer.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Has anybody asked Stern about Schultz lawsuit? He doesn’t seem to be addressing that.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
Man I wish I could ask a question.
How did the Muckelshoot deal not work, I read/heard the we willing to donate the land and even build the building. So how does that not work. Oh yeah, it’s not in OKC
WTF
April 18th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
I wonder what Slade is doing right now….Gotta love that guy
April 18th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
“Remember Stern is for all practical purposes the Mouth of Sauron here. His job is to instigate and divide and conquer.”
Yeah - Stern really isn’t saying anything different than what I expected him to say. I’d be surprised if his message was much different from what it is. He’s nothing if not consistently stubborn and ignorant.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
http://www.tsn.ca/nba/story/?id=234607&lid=sublink01&lpos=headlines_main
made front page on TSN.ca’s website
April 18th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
It’s funny how he’s quick to mention Tulsa as part of the OKC market, while conveniently ignoring the fact that the Seattle market includes Tacoma, Bellevue, etc. Spin doctor-ism at its finest.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Go Percy!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
“tulsa is close to OKC because the drivers drive fast in OK” did i hear that right???? what the hell
April 18th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
He keeps talking about San Antonio stepping up…but don’t the Spurs already have their hands back out for more $ to remodel that building? Wish someone would call him on that.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Key Arena- Smallest foot print in the league.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Steve, hasn’t the City & State already and divided and conquered themselves? They don’t need Stern’s help.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
“Key Arena- Smallest foot print in the league.”
Again, Stern conveniently spins the facts. Yes, Key Arena may be the smallest footprint in the league, as it stands today. If Key Arena is remodeled per the proposal, that will cease to be the case.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
How the hell are you guys able to watch/listen to this shit fest? I couldn’t for the life of me put up with Stern’s garbage. I’d break something for sure.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
How did the Muckelshoot deal not work, I read/heard the we willing to donate the land and even build the building.
They offered the land but left the building up to someone else.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Did he say political leaders from OK were there? Wow I’m glas we sent those letters!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Somebody just bitch-slap this guy!!! Stern is a damn idiot!!! Dude, we all know that you’re completely up Bennett’s ass. This guy lost credibility a long time ago. Now he’s just further digging his own grave.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Dallas is gonna whip up on them Hornets…go Dirk!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
IF the team leaves I think all Seattle sports fans should publicly vow to cease any support of the NBA. That means request all the local sports shows cease any coverage of their product, that we will actively avoid any of their sponsors and that we will cease to purchase any of their merchandise.
IF the team leaves I want the city of Seattle to publicly give the NBA and David Stern the biggest middle finger possible and make it public too. I don’t want ANY political correctness. Destroy them in the media the way Stern and Bennett have been trying to do to us. (of course the majority of their statements have been lies.)
Seattle > NBA. and this is coming from a lifelong NBA diehard.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
[i]“Stern is now saying that the City was against the Sonics, while the Gov and Ron “Backstabber” Sims were allies.
What a Crock! ”
Remember Stern is for all practical purposes the Mouth of Sauron here. His job is to instigate and divide and conquer.[/i]
Agreed, but even coming from Stern, that sentiment surprises me. The mayor GAVE his $75million, whereas all of his “allies” at the state level gave NOTHING!
There is almost nothing the sellout governor could do to make me vote for her, and I am a lifelong Dem!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Game on Clavid! I hate the fact that the nation thinks this is over, but we know it’s not. Let’s not let these bastards steal our team! I’m in for whatever the plan is for our next step.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
“How did the Muckelshoot deal not work, I read/heard the we willing to donate the land and even build the building.
They offered the land but left the building up to someone else.”
They offered the land and said they were willing to explore putting together a financing package. That was the end of it.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
“How the hell are you guys able to watch/listen to this shit fest? I couldn’t for the life of me put up with Stern’s garbage. I’d break something for sure. ”
I’m going nuts over here too..
Satan Bennett and Old man Sternsy deserve to go to hell.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
so Allen and Cuban are the only owners to vote no? what happened to the Jazz owner Miller? I thought he was against this…
April 18th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Wow. I didn’t think of that, phenom. Go Mavs! Not only as a thank you to Cuban, but more so as a fuck you to OKC. Seeing as how they take credit for the Hornets being good.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Chris Sheridan - So its personal?
Presentation of washington - We are going to kill you.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
http://www.officer.com/online/article.jsp?siteSection=5&id=41064
April 18th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
I agree Alex… I’m sure Slade is recording all of Stern’s comments and is drooling to get him on the stand in June.
But… I think Stern is bluffing his but off - if Nichols hangs tough and does NOT accept any settlement offer on the lease I think Stern and Clay will back down & the June case will not go to court.
If I’m wrong - I will enjoy Slade grilling Clay & stern under oath - and I think the city will win and the sonics will be here at least 2 more years.
NBA owners suck. No loyalty. Fans mean nothing to them.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
I can’t wait to see Slade hammer this mf’er in court. Stern is SO full of crap!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
How can anyone be alright with the Seattle Sonics moving.
Those voters are scared to piss Stern off.
Godbless Paul Allen and Mark Cuban
April 18th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
oooo Stern is pissed! LOL! Go Chris Daniels!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Did Chris Sheridan really ask Stern if it was personal? If so, how did Stern respond?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
This reporter from KING-TV is really pushing Stern.
Yeah, that figures. Stern didn’t wanna talk about the emails, so he moved to the next question.
What a crook.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
STERN YOU SNAKE.
Chris asked the question about the reading the emails. Stern said, I don’t like being interrupted, so I am not going to answer the question.
F**K YOU STERN
April 18th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Will you guys please be more specific about these questions? Thank you!
What did Sheridan and Chris Daniels ask/say?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Chris Daniels tried to ask Stern more about those emails between him and Clay and Stern started interrupting Chris Daniels before he finished his question… then Chris Daniels interrupted him back and Stern basically said that he didn’t appreciate being interrupted and therefore was going to go to the next question…
April 18th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
“Steve,
I was referring to the Schultz lawsuit not the cities. Because the city lawsuit is the one that can hold them here for the lease correct? But Schultzs could make them sell the team ”
You’re right, my bad. He won’t comment on the Schultz case, and in my opinion it is unlikely, although possible that even if Schultz won a court would nullify or reverse the sale. I’m not a lawyer but the courts are not usually in the position of remedying business deals gone bad.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Like I said in the other thread, Stern = petulant child.
I really do hate that guy and I will no longer support anything NBA related as long as his smug face is the mouth piece.
Sorry Idaho Stampede. I can no longer go to your games.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Did you guys just hear the KIng 5 guy ask a question which was basically did you read the emails? And Stern tried to dance around the question. The king 5 asked again and Stern said I dont like being interupted and lets move on. What an little prick!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
“Chris asked the question about the reading the emails. Stern said, I don’t like being interrupted, so I am not going to answer the question.”
That’s right up there with Mark McGwire’s famous “I’m not here to talk about the past’ comment in Congress a few years ago.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Wow. Stern is being such a dick! not surprising, but did you see how he totally evaded the email question from the KING reporter?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
I LOVE hearing that this is getting under Stern’s skin. I hope the stress takes a few years off his life.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Relocation fee = $30 million.
Clay Bennett is on next.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Asshole#2 up.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
AK: Yes, Stern said it wasn’t personal.
Here comes Bennett
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
His butt-buddy Clay is now taking the stand…. uh, I mean jumping into the hot seat.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
clay clay clay
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Where are you guys watching - hearing this conference?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
The Scum of Scum is up…
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
http://www.king5.com/sharedcontent/livevideo/?nvid=57417&live=yes&noad=no&shu=1
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
kjram.com
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Slade just got called out and he is going to fuck Clay and Stern up. I will go to war for Slade!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
I’ve never screamed soooo many times at my f***ing radio!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
why did Stern recently say that a Key Arena upgrade is not up to NBA Standards?…to me this means we have to get a BRAND NEW ARENA in the 2 years we have left in Seattle…can’t someone take Stern to court about this issue and then we get a remodelled Key Arena that is up to NBA Standards?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
“Where are you guys watching - hearing this conference?”
I’m watching it on NBA TV personally.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
STERN IS A COWARD. He’s gonna be hiding behind Clay’s fat ass for the rest of his life!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
“Chris Daniels tried to ask Stern more about those emails between him and Clay and Stern started interrupting Chris Daniels before he finished his question… then Chris Daniels interrupted him back and Stern basically said that he didn’t appreciate being interrupted and therefore was going to go to the next question… ”
Yeah, that was hilarious.
Wow, is Stern ever coming off as an imperious, evasive jerk.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
This guy is an even bigger liar than Stern. “I did the best job I could.” Yeah, right Clay. Save it for your court case you smug Okie son of a bitch!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Give me a break, lier!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Bennett’s voice is cracking, like he’s crying….
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
he is hella nervous
April 18th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
NWCN
April 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
This region can get its act together by saying no to professional sports. Stare the NBA right out of town. It’s not our fault the NBA is broken and needs an arena located inside a shopping mall with hotel rooms inside the actual fucking arena to be finacially successful. Professional sports are nothing more than advertising dollars and a toy for corporations and the mega rich. Fuck it all. Fuck it all right to hell. I’m enraged I’ve wasted so much of my time and emotion getting behind pro sports teams liek the Sonics, for what? To have some asshole like David Stern piss on me and my loyalties for some dustbowl? Fuck you you bastard. FUCK YOU! The only thing we have left is destroying the value of professional sports to regions like ours, enough of this having professional sports teams make you a major league city. To hell with all them, Mariners, Seahawks, Sonics and ESPECIALLY the fucking Storm. God damn it all. God fucking damn it all.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Clay up next. Let’s see if he has the guts to take a question from Seattle media.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Can this guy not lie when he talks?
April 18th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Someobdy just asked Clay how much he’s willing to pay to get out of the lease.
He just said he wants to re-establish a line of communication.
An OKC reporter just asked if he did all he could in Seattle.
Clay said, “Absolutely.”
April 18th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
The reply to Chris Daniels was the best…
“I don’t like to be interrupted” bla bla bla
Should have said “I don’t like people from Seattle telling the truth…”
What a coward.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Misrepresentation!? LOL!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Nice. Essex Porter asking about the email “I’m a man possessed”
I am so glad the local media folks, Especially Chris Daniels and Essex Porter, are totally asking all the tough questions.
Then you have percy allen, who wants to straddle the fence.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
KIRO just asked Clay about the emails.
Clay says he’s feeling bad that they were misrepresented. Now he’s trying to bullshit his way through this. What a damn liar.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
It didn’t say “in Seattle”
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Clay is trying to say he was a man possessed to stay in Seattle in that email.
F**K YOU CLAY.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
He did absolutely nothing after those e-mails! What a bunch of BS!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
I can’t believe he just fucking said that!!! He meant he was possesed to get this done in Seattle in that e-mail! What a fucking lying scumbag! I am so piist off right now!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
ARE YOU KIDDING ME? “I’m a man possessed” to KEEP the team in SEATTLE?
I’m so angry I can hardly type.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Kiro and King double team!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
thanks for clearing that up steve
April 18th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
“Now if you’ll excuse me…. David and I are going out to dinner and a show. Or maybe we’ll skip the show and lick each other’s balls.”
April 18th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Oh. Special plug to Chris Sheridan at ESPN for asking the tough question.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
If a judge isn’t able to see through hip-wader height of BS when the trial is under way, then I will lose what little faith I have left in the justice system.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Clay… “I operated in good faith” - wow - total BS
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
“Now if you’ll excuse me…. David and I are going out to dinner and a show. Or maybe we’ll skip the show and lick each other’s balls.”
LMFAO!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
These lies are going to come back and get Clay at trial. Keep asking questions guys!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Can Clay talk with out lying? This whole press conference is so ridiculous.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
“I made a commitment to Howard that was meaningful for me and I’m disappointed.” OMG… is he gonna write Howie a love letter now too.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Percy Allen is worthless like most of the local media in this region.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
“Clay is trying to say he was a man possessed to stay in Seattle in that email.”
LOL! If that’s what he acts like when he’s possessed exorcists never had it so easy.
The power of Christ compels you!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Oh Jesus F**K clay.
Really? A Man possessed to keep the team in seattle? Funny how the other owners took that to mean OKC in the original context of the emails.
Does he really think people are going to buy that.
Jesus flppin christ.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Mixed emotions my ass! Liar!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
I was angry before this press conference, but I am boiling over his claim that in those e-mails he was refering to keeping the team in Seattle! Come on how stupid do you think we are Clay? Seriously?!?! Oh my god, I need a drink!
April 18th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
I actually feel better today for some reason. The absolute ridiculousness of this move is making easier to swallow.
Of course if the time comes for the team to actually leave then I will be angry again.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
J. A. Adande nee of the L. A. Times, now of ESPN.com, sticks it to Clay! From his chat today: We interrupt this sunshine-filled day for a rain cloud from Seattle. This is the only issue keeping this from being a 5-star season for the NBA. No major brawls, great hoops, but this sickening story takes away the enjoyment. How can any city or fan base feel good when such a valuable part of the league is treated this way. I know it’s hard to hear all the legal stuff, but I think it’s Seattle’s best shot to keep the team. Bury the weasel Sonics owners under so much legal paperwork and court appointments that it isnt worth it to them anymore. Why hasn’t Bill Gates joined in and filed a suit yet?
“Weasel Sonics owners.” Gotta love it.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
This press conference is going to be brought up in the trial.
Keep on asking the tough questions chris, chris and essex.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
I am so f*ing angry right now! We’re being totally f*ed over by these bastards! We need to flood the NBA and the soon to be ex-governor Gregoire. As Softy said, it’s like going to war w/ a plastic gun in regards to Gregoire…
April 18th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
I’m glad I started drinking early in the morning before dealing with this shit.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Did anyone notice how irritated David Stern was getting at the King 5 reporter who was firing away questions at him. David had the nerve to get upset at him because he said he said he was being interrupted when it was in fact David who kept interrupting the reporter. It made me sick how arrogant David was, and how he sidestepped the question about whether he read the recent emails from the OK City partners that show a lack of good faith and their intent all along to move the team to OK City.
I wonder what the press conference looked like to others around the nation? It sure felt like a lot of arrogance from David Stern and a lot of lies from Clay Bennett as he said the emails were “misconstrued” or “misunderstood.” What a weasel.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
I’m shocked that he claims he was talking about Seattle, if that doesn’t prove what a scumbag he is I don’t know what is. And this was after his failed attempt in Olympia? Are you serious, he was doing cartwheels over the news.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Tulsa is 100 miles from OKC. And they think how mnay people will make a 200 mile roundtrip to see a game? At these gas prices? Add in game expeneses and local tax hikes and wow. Seems like a line of bullshit to me.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
It makes it easier and easier to hate the NBA. I liked what Stern said “Scorched Earth, Washington wants to kill us”
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Does anyone think this interview is going to be used by Slade in this lawsuit? He is lying!!!!! Those emails were clearly talking about moving to OKC!!!!!!!! WTF
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Clay is saying - begging - we want to settle the lease agreement suit - no kidding!
He is still and in trouble & knows it
He says he wants to be sensitive to fans in seattle etc. - HA
I agree - keep asking tough questions - Slade & howard can use this.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Man, for some reason I can’t get angry at this. I just see their answers as them further digging their own grave.
April 18th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Nice job there Clay. I haven’t seen that much BS sprayed on such a small area since Grandma’s septic tank exploded in her garden back when I was a kid.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
This is gonna get interesting guys. I think Clay is in it for the long haul. Let’s hope Nichols has the same stance.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
You want to see possesed? Wait til you see the fight you have on your hands now Clay! Sonic fans are possesed to see you crawl back into the hole you crawled out of!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
David Sterns soul is the only scorched earth around here.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Ok, we all know Clay is lying about this email. But it’s still a stupid thing to say. If he was a “man possessed” at keeping the team there, where are the actions to back it up? Clearly there is a breach of good faith there.
It won’t matter though. Lies like this will be transparent to any judge. Get em Schultz!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
I listened to most of this on KJR and it made me sick…..
Clay made one good defense of the emails though (if it’s true) when asked about the emails between he and aubrey mclendon.
He said that the email was in response to the state legislature not choosing to address the arena needs.
So if the emails read like this:
Arena measure totally shot down
“Clay do we have to endure another lame-duck season”
“I am a man possessed”
He doesn’t say he’s possesed to go to Oklahoma.
I know it’s a matter of semantics, but fraud is incredibly hard to prove in this matter and I am worried that Clay can paint that exchange of emails in any light he wants, especially if the timelines correspond to the legislature ignoring his request for arena funding..
What do you guys think?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Scorched earth is right. Fuck all.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
This is awesome to me, in a matter of speaker. Clay and Stern have been struggling to deal with questions regarding the facts that have been brought to light that they are aware of. And you know Slade has even more ammo that they haven’t had to address yet.
I just keeping hearing Clay’s answers and it makes me chuckle. They’re in trouble and they know it.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Now he’s whining about how tough it was to try and get something done in Seattle.
What a complete piece of crap!!! I want this Okie to bleed!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Bennett must think that every beside Stern and himself is stupid with the way he talks to people.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Clay pegged I-91 as the downhill slide.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Clay has been spoon fed everything he’s wanted for his entire life. His wife’s newspaper is the biggest joke in the entire nation, literally. He’s so used to lying and spinning facts that he doesn’t even think twice about it.
Congrats David Stern. You shown your true self in partnering with this “man”
April 18th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
tate,
Thats why I got completely smashed last night, so i could still be drunk at my desk all day!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
I’m not mad. I’m not angry. I’m sitting here at my desk at work the same way I always do. Why? Because none of this is a surprise. Bennet’s “I swear, we’re talking about Seattle” response. David Stern’s talk that he couldn’t get a first class arena here. The vote. It’s all expected. This doesn’t change the fight we’re in. This doesn’t change the war that we’re in the middle of. No. Tomorrow is another day. The day after is, as well. We’ll fight. We’ll do what we can. We’ll see what happens.
But today? Today doesn’t mean anything.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
does clay overdress or what?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Keep talkin’ Clay. Keep transcribing Slade.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
I’d like to see the other emails. I can only hope there are emails that directly refer to deception of Stern and Seattle officials, as well has the public. I’d love for more emails to be released Monday morning that can not be wiggle out of in anyway.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
“I know it’s a matter of semantics, but fraud is incredibly hard to prove in this matter and I am worried that Clay can paint that exchange of emails in any light he wants, especially if the timelines correspond to the legislature ignoring his request for arena funding..”
My thought is that Clay’s defense of that response is completely out of character with the emails between McClendon and Ward. Additionally, it’s inconsistent with what McClendon had said in the newspaper (regarding them wanting to have the team in OKC from the jump). Remember, the lawsuit isn’t against just Clay. It’s against his entire ownership group, so anything that any of them have said/written is subject to the same scrutiny that Clay’s comments are.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
“Man, for some reason I can’t get angry at this. I just see their answers as them further digging their own grave. ”
They’re certainly not doing much for their credibility.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Stupid Question, Chris. Come on. You can do better than that.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
I’m done getting pissed. Nothing new. We know their weasal stance. We’ve heard the lies before. Let the games begin.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Clay: millions of dollars spent on the process.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Percy is asking him specifically about good faith. How man hours spent? How many trips to Seattle?
Clay says at least 30 trips to Seattle, and millions of dollars.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
“Clay: millions of dollars spent on the process.”
I hope he keeps good records and/or knows some of those Enron accountants.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
BR… Waht is your take & what do you see happening next?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Somebody throw their coffee at this asshole.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
The next 2 years we make Clay Bennett fucking bleed!!!!!!! NO Sonic games no money to CLay. We make Seattle the next 2 seasons a fucking black hole on the NBA. Come on Slade!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
If you would have taken ward out of that email chain, then MAYBE the legislation bit works.
With Ward in there, it DOES NOT WORK.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
From what I have reviewed this is the exchange of the e-mail:
“Is there any way to move here [Oklahoma City] for next season or are we doomed to have another lame duck season in Seattle?” Ward wrote.
Bennett replied: “I am a man possessed! Will do everything we can. Thanks for hanging with me boys, the game is getting started!”
Ward: “That’s the spirit!! I am willing to help any way I can to watch ball here [in Oklahoma City] next year.”
McClendon: “Me too, thanks Clay!”
How on God’s green earth can he claim he was talking about Seattle?!?!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Yeah, I’d like to see the proof on millions of dollars spent trying to keep the team here.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
“Can they actually start to physically move anything before the court cases are settled”
This questions was asked on the other thread. No, they can’t. If they try, there will be an injunction placed against the attempted move. The court will not allow it. It won’t happen.
And as it has been said previously, this press conference has now become a part of the city’s case. And don’t be surprised if the NBA is now pulled into it as well.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Clay Bennett is lying!! 30 trips to Seattle and various other areas of the Country and millions of dollars, what bull! that guy maybe made 5 trips to Seattle if that…wow that guy makes me sick
April 18th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
30 trips????? He sure didn’t let anyone up here know.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
Anybody remember that old simpsons episode where they were abducted by aliens and they found the cookbook titles “how to cook humans” and then the aliens blew some space-dust off the cover and it said “how to cook FOR humans”?
Maybe clays emails have been covered in space-dust this whole time.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
“Clay pegged I-91 as the downhill slide. ”
And IMO it was… Chris Van Hypocrite and his underwriters at SEIU really gave them a lot of ammo with that.
That still burns me that Van Hypocrite and his paid signature gatherers flat out lied to people about that. I totally challenged one of them on the corner of Market and Leary in Ballard one Sunday and it was clear the guy literally knew -nothing-, hell less than nothing about the situation other than asking people if they hated pro sports and if they did, sign this. “I’m just here because I get paid” was his actual response.
IMO Chris Van Dyk deserves just as much hatred as Clay. There are some fellow authors that won’t agree with me about that, but he doesn’t deserve a free pass.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
Press conference finally over. Good, my glass has been empty for awhile.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
“Yeah, I’d like to see the proof on millions of dollars spent trying to keep the team here.”
And not only that, how many of those trips were to visit Bill Russell? The same Bill Russell who was conspicuously present when Dave Bean and Fred Brown made that bogus arena presentation in hopes of attracting another NBA team to Seattle (i.e. not the Sonics).
Yeah, that may sound like some crazy conspiracy theory, but I think it’s a simple case of connect-the-dots.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Bah, fuck Bill Russell and his legacy. Get out of town you trader.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Now there’s a hail storm. Tis a cold day in hell.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
If Clay and company’s best defense about those emails is that Clay was talking about Seattle and the whole thing was “misconstrued”, then their case is in dire trouble.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
“Clay: millions of dollars spent on the process.”
He will get his chance to prove it in court. I see a Motion for Discovery on that point coming his way very soon.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
I will miss the sonics if they leave but a big part me will be excited to see the failure when the “new” wears off of the team and attendace is flailing. In order for the NBA owners to realize that Stern is a joke it will take some big mistakes on his part, moving the Sonics is one of them. It wont be apparent now or next year but it will at some point. If the sonics do leave I dont care to allow the NBA back at any time.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
just called the Governor’s office to let her know my anger. They seemed not to even care…never even asked for a name or number…..etc…. Slam her office now with calls: (360) 902-4111
April 18th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
Hey Dick…
I’m in Monroe and it started hailing when Stern started talking….I thought the exact same thing
Cold day in hell indeed
April 18th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Man, as I see it, there’s nothing to be depressed about. Clay and Stern said pretty much exactly what I expected them to say. I think watching the press conference was worthwhile for the simple fact that I got to see David Stern get owned by Chris Daniels. That was hilarious.
I might just have to see if I can find his email and send him some major props on that.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
A reporter is one thing, a judge will be quite another.
bring on the court case, oh yes, how about having Stern testify for you, while acting like that, he’s gonna get roasted in court if he pulls anything like that.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
“From what I have reviewed this is the exchange of the e-mail:
“Is there any way to move here [Oklahoma City] for next season or are we doomed to have another lame duck season in Seattle?” Ward wrote.
Bennett replied: “I am a man possessed! Will do everything we can. Thanks for hanging with me boys, the game is getting started!”
Ward: “That’s the spirit!! I am willing to help any way I can to watch ball here [in Oklahoma City] next year.”
McClendon: “Me too, thanks Clay!”
How on God’s green earth can he claim he was talking about Seattle?!?! ”
NICE!
Way to clown him.
I see OKC trolls are starting to pop up in the comments … just a reminder to everyone don’t feed them, half of them just want your attention and the other half feed on misery … let em eat silence.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
How perfectly appropriate that Bennett’s last word was “dollars”…
April 18th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
This is on King 5’s main page right now:
“Mayor to discuss Sonics - Seattle’s mayor plans a 1:30 p.m. press conference to discuss efforts to keep the Sonics in Seattle. Return here or go to NWCN for live coverage.”
April 18th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
He HAD to spend the money. If he didn’t it would be proof positive that he did not make a GFE.
Even $2m is peanuts compared to everything else. Hell the relocation fee alone is $30,000,000!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Question. If the city wins the lawsuit in June and the team is forced to play in Seattle the next 2 seasons, and then nest year the state legislature passes the $75 million dollar funding for the new stadium, what good will that do now?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
I was flipping my middle finger the entire way thru the press conference.
Lies after lies, but oh well, nothing new.
This changes nothing, it is still within our game plan.
And it starts to snow outside, as if to pound more gloominess on this sad matter.
WELL, Now that we know which fukheads voted for “Yes”, we can identify our enemies.
I was expecting Larry Miller to be on ourside, I was even picked the Jazz to go to the Finals.
FUK HIM!!!!!!!!! His Jazz can burn in hell (not the players).
GAME ON CLAY AND STERN, you better be prepared
April 18th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
30 trips and how many face to face meetings with the mayor?
I do not care how many trips, how much money, if he did not give a good faith best effort for 12 months then he is going to have a problem.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
“I see OKC trolls are starting to pop up in the comments … just a reminder to everyone don’t feed them, half of them just want your attention and the other half feed on misery … let em eat silence.”
I, for one, will not be feeding them. I’m completely not rattled or even angered by this whole deal. It happened how we all should have expected it to happen. I’m eager to see what happens next, to be honest.
There’s a lot of time on the clock in this fight, IMO.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Sorry if this has been answered before, but did they say how many ‘no’ votes?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
I am not mad right now simply because I am not listening to the press conference. If I was, I would be flipping out right now.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
James Donaldson is being interviewed on Channel 2 now (Northwest Cable News) - he’s there. They just finished interviewing Slick Watts via the phone and showed David Stern P.C. following the Clay Bennett P.C.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
i just want to know if a Key Arena upgrade will EVER be acceptable? Stern kept saying its not, so what needs to get done now if a Key Arena upgrade is out of the question? or can it be talked about again?…whats next??? after this depressing day in Seattle
what does Ballmers group do now?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
“30 trips and how many face to face meetings with the mayor?”
Not only that, but how many meetings did he have with the Muckleshoots? How many with Dave Sabey? Who’s to say he didn’t just travel here for kicks, just to say that he made an appearance? I mean, there’s worse places to travel to for pleasure, right? Oh yeah, I guess OKC would probably be one of those places.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
I would like to dedicate this song to clay and david! Unike them, it speaks the truth!
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8892609252876854128&q=sex+pistols+liar&ei=GwIJSIfxJYyarwL5rezoDg&hl=en
April 18th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
“Sorry if this has been answered before, but did they say how many ‘no’ votes?”
It was 28-2.. The no votes were from Mark Cuban and Paul Allen.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Here’s what I’m thinking - the emails that were released to the Seattle Times CANT have been the only emails in which Bennett and co. discussed the OKC move can they? I mean in the 12 months good faith period, there must have been more emails, quotes, etc etc.
I think Slade released just enough of his massive amounts of material to get the country talking and to get some action from the city going before the BOG meeting, and it worked. There is NO WAY that those were the only incriminating pieces of evidence.
And that is why, after fuming for a few hours, I now am starting to feel ok. Because I think the lies we have heard over the past week and today are going to bite them in the ass when the real evidence is released.
Anyone else with me on this one?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
“Anyone else with me on this one?”
Count me in. I’m sure they have access to thousands of emails as a result of the discovery process. I’ve got to imagine that they cherry-picked several good ones for public consumption, but that they still have a few aces up their sleeve.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Alex Quante Says:
Who’s to say he didn’t just travel here for kicks
Well, we know he hung out with Bill Russell in the suite a few times. I’m sure he’s counting those.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
this is the best scenario we could have expected. obviously not the best we could hoped for, but the best we could have expected. and Sterno and Clay Clay just gave Snortin’ Gorton all kinds of ammo for the court case coming up. Thanks guys!
Speaking of the court case, is Bennett still claiming it’s a farce? Because that farce just delayed your moving date!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
I think that any judge will see that Clay’s “good faith effort” was completely transparent and a shallow attempt at best. Its going to suck waiting until June for this thing to take place
April 18th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
yep, thats why I’m ok either way. if they go it will just be one more sport I don’t follow.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Actually, this version of the song is better. Clay, David, this is your new personal anthem!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmsuKjKNryM
April 18th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Like I said before, they got 150,000 emails from their request. Should be more than 5-10 good ones.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
Paul Allen owns a team in Seattle. He knew better than to upset Seattle fans.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
“yep, thats why I’m ok either way. if they go it will just be one more sport I don’t follow.”
I’m kind of in the same boat. I remain very hopeful that things will turn out in our favor. If they don’t, I’m at peace with the whole situation. I guess I’ll have more time for the other activities that I ignore now.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Hoping the Mayor’s press conference is to announce that he will not accept a buyout under any circumstances. That would strip Clayvid of any momentum they just gained.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
DavidE Says:
There is NO WAY that those were the only incriminating pieces of evidence.
Who knows? If they were intended to prompt Schultz to sue, they probably wanted as much of the dirt out there as possible. They wouldn’t have been allowed to talk with Howie about them directly.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
did anyone ask Clay about Emerald City Center? or is that whole thing just a joke? I havent heard anything lately about this so i was just curious…
screw clay and david stern!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Right, what did he do on those 30 trips?
As El Presidente shows, Clay’s spin on that e-mail exchange is just that, and further on his good-faith claims, it would be interesting to know how much he spent, in money and man-hours, on keeping the Sonics in Seattle (and this doesn’t include travel and expenses and site-seeing) vs. how much he spent on prepping OKC for the Sonics during the one-year good-faith period, and it would be interesting to see the parallel time-tables of his activity on both ends.
In the end, whatever (probably minimal) effort he can demonstrate having made in Seattle the e-mails expose as a dumb-show. Isn’t that the picture of bad faith?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
You got to remember that these guys from OKC have no souls. Remember how Aubrey pulled that Swift Boat veteran crap. They will obviously say anything to get what they want.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
“Paul Allen owns a team in Seattle. He knew better than to upset Seattle fans.’
All I know is that I may have to temporarily become a Mavs fan during the playoffs. Cuban made a strong statement and stood behind his words. Whether you like him as a person or not, you have to respect a man of character (i.e the anti-Clay).
April 18th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
I figured that Satan would try to spin his “Posessed” comment to mean “staying in Seattle.” He is a truly great liar.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
59 days til trial, the first trial that is.
we do not know anything about Howard’s case, other than it has “legs” and will cost a lot of money.
moving cost, court costs from the city and Howard, his own court costs, he has driven off as many fans as 30 trips here could get him.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Press Conference with Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels will be starting very shortly - a little after 1:30PM on Channel 2 - NWCN. James Donaldson is still on the air now talking about how David Stern did not put in the effort to work things out in Seattle and instead made threats.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
when is the mayors press conference?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
So Softy and Ian wants to give up on keeping the sonics here, and now want to move foward to get a new team.
DAmnit. I want the sonics HERE
Thank god Nickels is going to hang tough (I hope?)
April 18th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
So, is there anything to be done except wait until June?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Fuck Softy, Ian and all those hacks on KJR. All of them are worthless.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Draft Party?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Yeah, Cuban really is a good guy….He’s a bit crazy, but I think he’s good for the league…
I only wish we had 14 other guys there just like him who had a vote.
Also, I think it’s good Paul Allen voted no, rather than obstaining.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Wasn’t it funny when Stern said that all the owners felt Clay gave a good faith effort. Then “they took Clay at his word that he tried”. They are fools.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
KJR to carry mayors presser.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
I am very happy to see that Paul Allen actually voted no and didn’t merely abstain. I was prepared to be extremely pissed off at him, and I am a HUGE Seahawks fan. I’ve had season tix going back to the Kingdome days. I was prepared to really throw a fit. Thanks for having our back Paul. And again, thanks to Mark Cuban, who for all the crap he gets for being a renegade and trouble maker, seems to be the only owner in the league with decency and who thinks for himself. Actually, it makes it more than apparent why Cuban has earned his rep. Simply because he doesn’t buy into Stern’s bullshit. Mark Cuban, you are a good person. Go Mavs. Stomp the shit out of OKC’s wannabe team.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
KJR is basically giving up on keeping this current team here. I wish they wouldn’t do that over the air.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
thanks david for the press conference time, i must have posted around same time as you..anywhere i can watch the press conference on the net?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
“So Softy and Ian wants to give up on keeping the sonics here, and now want to move foward to get a new team.”
I don’t understand that. Isn’t the history worth fighting for? Isn’t it worth fighting for what is right? I mean, this is worse than when we got screwed out of having the Pilots and were given the M’s years later. There wasn’t a 41 year history when the Pilots when they were swiped from us.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Ok everyone, do we support the team next year if we win the court case or do we make them bleed?
Im torn as a fan i want to support my team to the end but do i want to pay money to the people who’s taking my team away…What are your thoughts?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Softy you fat **** get off the airwaves. No exaggeration, I once counted him saying “when it’s all said and done” 15 times in under 8 minutes. I know that pretty much means nothing, but it confirmed my strong opinion that he is a joke. And yes I’m bitter.
We should stress to Gregoire, Nickels, and whoever else that an expansion team is NOT ok. We want the Sonics. And we want Bennett/Stern’s heads in the process. This thing is just getting started…
April 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Nickels press conference on now.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
thanks david for the press conference time, i must have posted around same time as you..anywhere i can watch the press conference on the net?
king5.com
April 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
I LOVE Mark Cuban
April 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Call Christy Gregoire right now, tell her (her secratary at least) how you feel. It is very easy. 1-360-902-4111
April 18th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
I’ll cross that bridge next year.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
“KJR is basically giving up on keeping this current team here. I wish they wouldn’t do that over the air. ”
They’re like sheep. After listening to the Mayor they’ll probably change their tune.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Mayor’s press conference staring - live in King 5 online
April 18th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
OMG SeattleTimes is fucking stoopid.
http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/reader_feedback/public/display.php?id=519
“How will you say goodbye to the Sonics?
It looks like it’s official — our Sonics are leaving. How will you say goodbye? It could be a song, haiku, a bumper sticker or a break-up letter. Upload it here in any format you want, words, pictures, audio, or video.”
Stupid fuckers.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
NWCN
April 18th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
3 Cheers for Mark Cuban and Paul Allen anyway. We should all thank them for their efforts. It’s too bad that they couldn’t convince any other owners to change their votes. Does anyone know who comprised the NBA Relocation committee? Were there owners on that committee that unanimously recommended that the relocation of the Sonics to Oklahoma City be approved?
The Press Conference with Mayor Greg Nickels has started …
April 18th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
Nichols is talking right now. Nothing new so far
April 18th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
NICE.
Continue with lease lawsuit.
Good for you MAYOR.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
28 no votes i believe…… BULL S**t
If i ever see clay in person……………….
April 18th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
I’m supporting the team. I’m a fan. I love the Sonics.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
“Im torn as a fan i want to support my team to the end but do i want to pay money to the people who’s taking my team away…What are your thoughts? ”
My thoughts are to table this discussion until after the court case.
A better question would be: could on-line discussions of bleeding the team have any impact on any of the court cases? If so, how?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
D_G Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
“So, is there anything to be done except wait until June? ”
Stuff to come: Howard files his case, more discovery, depositions, financial records turned over by all 30 teams, emails from the sale transaction, an injunction from Howard to keep the team from moving, the fans class action case, more discovery.
A week will not pass without Bennett having one of three trials trashing him.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
NO SETTLEMENT!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
Hope the City of Seattle and Howard win their lawsuits against stupid Bennett. Moving the Sonics would be a major mistake that they will definitely regret. Screw Clay and Stern!! All these pathetic lies that Clay and Bennett been telling to the media. What a load of crap. We can’t trust people with their hidden agendas that they have in their minds. Thank you to Dallas’ Mark Cuban and Portland’s Paul Allen for standing up for us.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
Relocation votes pass in the NBA. Thats just the way it is. Hornets, Sonics, and Vancouver there have been a total of 3 votes against relocation. No shock that this passed. It would have taken a miracle for this to be denied.
I haven’t read that far into documents…….but I think both the suits are going to be tough wins for all sides. Clays suit is bunk. Shultz’ suit is going to be hard to win too. Fraud is really really hard to prove from a legal perspective.
I do believe city has a good chance though.
This is going to be interesting and messy to say the least.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
“DavidE Says:
There is NO WAY that those were the only incriminating pieces of evidence.
Who knows? If they were intended to prompt Schultz to sue, they probably wanted as much of the dirt out there as possible. They wouldn’t have been allowed to talk with Howie about them directly.”
“DavidE Says:
There is NO WAY that those were the only incriminating pieces of evidence.
Who knows? If they were intended to prompt Schultz to sue, they probably wanted as much of the dirt out there as possible. They wouldn’t have been allowed to talk with Howie about them directly.”
Anything’s possible, but a nationally renowned lawyer probably doesn’t show his hand two months before the case even begins. I also doubt anyone forecasted Howard Schultz’ lawsuit. What lawyer would put all their eggs into that hole-riddled basket?
I just hope we sue the living shit out of anyone that gets in our way, and I think we’re off to a pretty good start in that regard. If the team does relocate from Seattle to Oklahoma, then we’ve got a lot more serious issues to deal with, namely the four horsemen of the goddam apocolypse.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
“Here’s what I’m thinking - the emails that were released to the Seattle Times CANT have been the only emails in which Bennett and co. discussed the OKC move can they?”
The first set of discovery according to the last page of that 92 page .pdf noted 730 pages. There is either material in that set f discovery that does not pertain to the case or would confidential and part of the court file that is not open to the public. The court can close certain parts of a file from the public.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
New poll on foxsports.com let’s get voting kid’s we’re down 31% to 69%.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
I’ve reached a point that every time I see Stern or Bennett face I want to throw the TV out the window.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
Boom
Nickels “Keeping team in city for 2 years, it opens up other doors”
April 18th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
Between David Stern and Clay Bennett, who’s Dumb and who’s Dumber?
David Stern sure is making Bud Selig look like an angel.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
“we have a valid lease until 2010 and we plan on sticking to it”
I like this guy…
April 18th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Did anyone ask Stern or Bennett about Shultz’s lawsuit?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Oh, and I am now formally a democrat for Rossi!
Rossi ‘08
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Last three relocation votes (Hornets, Grizzlies & Sonics)
87-3 in favor of relocation.
Shouldn’t be a shock to anyone that this passed. Lets move on.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
“Last three relocation votes (Hornets, Grizzlies & Sonics)
87-3 in favor of relocation.
Shouldn’t be a shock to anyone that this passed. Lets move on.
”
Definitely. Besides, we had twice as many no votes than the last two votes had combined!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
how about a link to this poll, 4020?
April 18th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Now would be a good time to send continued support (EMAILS) to Mayor Nickels confirming your support for him and the City to stand strong and not settle for a buyout. Let him know you support his actions to take this to the end. We want to keep OUR SONICS, not accept some expansion team in the future.
Its keep this team or bust!
All will come out in the court case. Clay Bennett and David Stern will get creamed when they have to go on the witness stand.
Plus, you have to believe that the emails that have been released thus far are just the tip of the iceberg. I would bet there is more email evidence tracking all the way back to before the time of sale.
This party is just getting started guys and gals…..Stay the course!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Why did KJR stop broadcasting the Mayor’ PC? I don’t think he was done.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Out of curiousity . . . given the approval of moving.
Did the owners vote on a revenue sharing plan?
I curious how the various markets positioned themselves on this issue. I think, in the long run it is relevant to the Sonics future.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Mayor Greg Nickels is answering lots of press questions now … btw his name is Nickels (like nickels and dimes), not Nichols.
NWCN - Channel 2 has it all. I don’t know if it’s on the internet.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Nichols: “Seattle GNP is higher than the entire OK state”. Nice!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Nice knowing ya Gregoire.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Yeh Nickels. I’m a fool!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
This “It’s a sad day in Seattle” stuff on KJR bugs me. It makes it sound like they’re gone. Sure, it made me sick listening to Stern & Bennett, but nothing unexpected happened today.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Shouldn’t be a shock to anyone that this passed. Lets move on.
I don’t think anyone is really shocked or upset about the vote. I think its the press conference people are on fire about.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Nickels sounds too smooth. I don’t trust him.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
The Mayor’s P.C. is over now. Mayor Nickels just said that he doesn’t care how much that Clay Bennett comes back and offers him to get out of the lease - he will go to court to keep the Sonics in Seattle and do the right thing for the people of Seattle. Steve Scheffler is on now (on the phone at Channel 2).
April 18th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
THE sCHEF IS ON!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
A deal is a deal in the lease. Breaking the lease is a total violation of the terms that were reached in the deal way back when. Bring on the lawsuits against stupid Bennett. That was a total cheap shot from stupid Bennett released yesterday. The solution to this on going issue would be just to sell the Sonics back to the Seattle. Steve Balmer and other local ownership groups would buy them to save the SONICS. And it would help resolve this whole mess of crap that has been going on for a couple years.
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
I love one of the headlines on the Seattle Times: “how will you say goodbye to the sonics!”
GRR
April 18th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Mayor Nichols said that if Clay was acting in good faith they would have sat down and hammered out a solution to this…
^
there you have it..Clay never had any good faith towards keeping the team in Seattle. I think the City has a huge case and will win. Clay will end up selling the team.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
New ESPN Poll - Mulitple questions on there check it out!
[TINYURL.COM for crying out loud]
April 18th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
poll:
http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=3459
April 18th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
TINYURL!!! LEARN IT!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
From a Forbes Magazine article in Jan. 2007 regarding a letter written by eight NBA owners in Fall 2006:
““Our current economic system (whereby local television revenue and gate receipts are not shared among the league’s 30 franchises) works only for larger-market teams and a few teams that have extraordinary success on the court,” says a letter sent by eight owners to Stern this fall. Owners from all of the league’s smallest markets, including Charlotte, N.C., Memphis, Milwaukee, Wis., and New Orleans, signed the letter.”
April 18th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Wrong address= please use http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=3459
April 18th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
“I don’t think anyone is really shocked or upset about the vote. I think its the press conference people are on fire about.”
Stern and Bennetts comments are nothing new either.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
NO SETTLEMENT AT ALL. Don’t think you can get away with that Bennett and company!!! Keep up the fight Nickels!!!
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/polling?event_id=3459
Another unscientific internet poll…
April 18th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
On the e-mails… are there more etc.???
I don’t know - they may have released the ones they did because they represent the best ones.
Time to lawyer up big-time
April 18th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
From what I see in the poll.
Everyone thinks seattle is the better market, people feel that sonics will be in OKC 5 years from now.
Majority think that seattle will not get a team for at least a decade.
Majority blame clayton bennett
April 18th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Agreed with maand1, that “there you have it..Clay never had any good faith towards keeping the team in Seattle. I think the City has a huge case and will win. Clay will end up selling the team.” The City of Seattle is just saving Bennett from embarrassing him and his ownership group by saving them the financial burden and potential costs that it will take to battle in lawsuits. Go Nickels, Howard and the City of Seattle!!!
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Mayor never admitted he will flat out reject a buyout settlement.
He was being glib.
But something tells me he is pretty p!ssed off at Stern and Clay that he is taking htis personal.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I’m very proud of both Mark Cuban and Paul Allen!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Scorch earth baby.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
I’m sorry guys, that we couldn’t get more owners to come through. However…
We have done wonders for Seattle Supersonics advocacy. Now we need to continue to rally media personalities nationwide to scream outrage.
Your first targets should be Greg Cote and Ethan Skolnick: gcote@MiamiHerald.com
ESkolnick@sun-sentinel.com
All of you send both of them an e-mail and it will get major attention in the Miami area. Play up to them too.
April 18th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Anyone listening to KJR? Tyrone sounds like he has been hitting the sauce all morning!
April 18th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Not that I’m advocating any kind of settlement; I want to see Durant, Green and Derrick Rose running up and down the Key Arena hardwood for the next decade.
HOWEVER, how would you feel about this type of Settlement:
1. Guarantee of a new or relocated franchise to be owned by the Balmer group by 2009-2010 season
2. Preservation of Sonics name & History
3. $97M lease buyout from Bennett & Co. - covers the City’s arena debt and the remaining $75M needed for Key Arena renovation
4. Bennett & Co. allowed to relocate current team to OK for 2008-2009 season.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Dick Tate… I share your uncertainty on how firm Nichols is.
The first question from the press after Nichols opening comments was a direct question on if Nichols would take a cash settlement in this case. (Clay almost begged for this in his press comments)
So > How did any of you feel about Nichols response? To me is was hesitant. He repeated some canned statement that surely he rehearsed about wanting to see the Sonics here for 2 more years etc. - but he would not say… “No Settlement at any amount will even be considered”
I was left feeling uneasy with Nichols response.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Clayton that lying sack of shit!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
I’m about ready to turn KJR off. All Ian is talking about is Stern leaving the door open for another team…
April 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Thanks S. FL Fan. We have made great progress.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
I had someone doing a story about the relocation move, requesting permission to use one of my SOS 109 pictures.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
When is Howard going to file his suit? How long does this take?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Worm. I am torn on that. I would be happy with that except for 2 things. First, SEATTLE absolutely deserves Durant, Green, Beasley/Rose, and the future picks. SEATTLE was the one supporting the Sonics the last decade of crap. We deserve the rewards. Also, I kind of want to stick it to the NBA and make sure they lose millions of viewers up here.
Then when Stern finally steps down we can talk again.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
No new franchise and NO relocated franchise. I would never EVER want to be on the other end of stealing another communities team. NEVER! Its the current franchise or nothing. I want the real Sonics or I want them pried from the hands of this region.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Otto, I hope yuo gave them persmission
April 18th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Stern and Bennett has made this personal. F them.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Nice but no thanks Big_Worm.
To me, that would be giving your kids up for adoption with the condition you get new ones in a few years with the same names.
I’m so glad we have Slade Gordon on our side.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Thanks Free. Everyone, let’s start the e-mail list of potentially-interested columnists for each team:
Miami Heat: gcote@MiamiHerald.com, ESkolnick@sun-sentinel.com
Let’s get a list going!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Big-worm… On your idea & question
For me… No deal - No way.
It is essential IMO to keep a clear & united vision for keeping this team here. As soon as we start “Negotaiting” around this we are in trouble. An expansion team sounds terrible and I don’t want to steal another cities team - feels hypocritical at some level.
Plus for myself - as a matter of principle and as a fan who believes this team has a great future with KD & JG & plenty of #1 picks - I want these guys!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Let’s move discussion onto the newly posted thread. Thanks all!
Big Chris
April 18th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
Howard said he was going to sue stupid Bennett within the next two weeks.
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
This was a fascinating read for me regarding chances for profitability among small market teams (all larger markets than Oklahoma City).
http://www.mbqmemphis.com/node/39
April 18th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
I felt the same way about Nichols response JJ. I was getting ready for him to say “no buyout under any circumstances” or something like that.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
“Softy” is on Channel 2 now and the Sonics players along with James Donaldson. Can we get anyone over to Channel 2 to talk? Where is Channel 2 btw?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
I’m not surprised that the Mayor didn’t definitively rule against a buyout, even though I believe he is of the mindset that a buyout is completely unacceptable.
Why? If he says publicly that a buyout is not even possible, he is feeding fuel to the fire that is Satan’s BS lawsuit. Better not to rule out anything, lest he be accused of refusal to negotiate in “good faith”.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Otto, I hope yuo gave them persmission
I did, I hope its good!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
No IAN.
notice how he does not even address Schultz’s lawsuit.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Ugh I hate politics. Always in the dark.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
God…i am really getting f*ing sick and tired of Furnace on KJR….all he’s saying is that they’re gone and get a new team…..PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is crap!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I was working and missed the entire coverage. Does anyone know if there is going to be a replay anywhere? I HAVE to see this after reading all the comments everyone wrote about it.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
I am almost out of energy on this thing. I am one who knew that this was going to happen today, but it is still a big kick in the crotch.
From a completely pragmatic standpoint, a buyout makes some sense if it pays off all Key debt, keeps Sonics history in Seattle and the solid promise of a new team.
The real threat to the City of Seattle (I don’t live in Seattle) is the possible lack of financial viability of the Seattle Center. The city is going to pay sooner or later. If Seattle has a financial problem, they will most likely go to the state for relief and the state will still have to come up with some money.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
TINY URL IS YOUR FRIEND
Can we fix:
john_s Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
post??
April 18th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
F**K you Ian.
No surrender.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Ian furlnice or whatever his name is, needs to go back to Utah and shut his mouth.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Well, are you all ready to do what need be done? IF this is the end, and the worst comes to worst, what are you willing to do? We sit here and complain, we sit here and act indignant, but how many of you will forget how you felt today and do nothing about it?
It is time to become more united than ever before. Will any of you give the time and effort that is need to make sure that we get recognized and taken seriously. It is time to go to the next level and start a FAN UNION. An official organization for the fans, by the fans. We need to have information exposure in the press, we need a face, we need power…anyone actually willing to step up…because I am.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Ian, go back to Portland you worthless shit.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Mambone - home you are right - makes sense
Sonic Comic - King5 news online has all the NBA news conference info. on their web site
April 18th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
I am sure the lawyers enjoy clay admitting that tom and audacity wanted a team in OKLA the whole time!
again clay is not being sued his group is!!
howard case is getting better and better!!
thanks dumb ass.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Ian: You only don’t want the NBA back, because your emotional.
Really?
Come on Ian, THe northwest has the least viewership of the NBA playoffs.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
ESPN BREAKING NEWS “Isiah out in NY,” replacing Sonics. Couldn’t they fire Isiah LAST year instead of right now.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Slade is under their skin I love it.. Lets just keep on keeping on. What a black eye if they had to stay here for 2 more years. Although, this is a hard position to be in. I personally will support the team but as far as buying any merchandise FORGET IT. It is really not fair to use the same capitalistic punishment that Clay and Stern are using on Seattle and then use the same tactic against a team that is trying their hardest to win under the most harsh circumstances. To see those guys’ faces after they got off the plane at Boeing field was very telling. They guys work all their lives just to get caught up in a huge money grab pissing contest. They are getting the shaft too.
I will cheer on the Sonics while in Seattle, but no more Durant sweatshirts or anything of the kind.
SIDE NOTE:
Clay does overdress and boy is that a fancy lace handkerchief that he has. I mean that is very pretty Clay my sister wants to know where you got that…
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I’ll support the team by watching them for FREE on FSN and national broadcasts (when available).
Screw buying tix.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
FYI — for anyone who’s interested….. The entire press conference (56:29) is now available on NBA.com
April 18th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
I have an idea for a computer game: Total War:NBA. Bring on the scorched earth! 1942 style:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Stalingrad_aftermath.jpg