Men with Stones: Paul Allen and Mark Cuban
Posted on Friday, April 18th, 2008 at 2:02 pm by Big Chris
Props to Paul Allen and Mark Cuban for standing up for what is right. Standing up in spite of possibly suffering the wrath of David Stern.
Stern has had the integrity of his leadership and the league brought to question two times now this season. Bookending what many would consider one of the greatest NBA season in recent memory you have the referee scandal of Tim Donaghy betting on NBA game to start the season, and now his utter lack of spine and leadership in his guiding the NBA Board of Directors to vote for the relocation of the SEATTLE Sonics.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
amen
April 18th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I thought he was going to abstain. Maybe the vote was at 28/1 and it came to him and he said”guys, you got this already, how about I vote no so I’m not in deep shit with my city”.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Copied from the other thread:
>>>
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 2:07 pm
Totally agreed. Paul Allen and Mark Cuban have good hearts.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
I hate David Stern…
April 18th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Look what this has done to me. I don’t trust anybody anymore. Not even the owner of my beloved Hawks.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
We can all agree that we want to keep the current team, and we want to stick it to Clay & Co., but as it usually does it might come down to a compromise.
Would you honestly rather have the current team or no team at all?
Wouldn’t it be sweet irony for Clay’s money to ultimately pay for a new Arena in Seattle?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
He knew teh vote would be heavily in favor of yes. The owners are extortion artist and voting yes in the face of common sense is whats best for them extorting communities in the future. Any NO vote is a vote agaisnt their might hammer. Fuck all of them. Wake up people Pro sports are not any more part of your community as the local Walmart.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Guys….don’t give up. You have to keep the advocacy going more than ever. Now is the time to make Stern and Bennett look shameful. THIS NEEDS TO BE EXPLOSIVELY BAD PR FOR THE LEAGUE
April 18th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
The NBA has no control over whether a team moves or not. I understand the welcome news of the solidarity from these two, but it really does not matter one way or the other. If either one wanted to move his team, they would do so as well.
What matters if Bennet has to stay 2 more years based on the buyout. That will be interesting.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Assuming the following:
1. The Sonics draft an exciting young player like Rose,
and
2. The City wins the lawsuit and holds the team here till 2010,
HOW MANY OF YOU ARE PREPARED TO BOYCOTT THE GAMES (IN PERSON) IN ORDER TO MAXIMIZE BENNETT’S LOSSES?!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
I should add, yes props to both Cuban and Allen for having the balls and good character to do what is right, and not what is in the interest off maximzing profitability and strengthing pro sports strangle hold on cities.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Honestly, it’s this team or bust for me. Not that I don’t like the NBA, but hopefully with the bridges we burn and the skeletons we expose in June, the NBA will nevr think of coming back here.
I’ve had it up to my eyeballs with Stern. If I can’t root for Durant and Co., my life would be much less stressful not having to deal with him anymore.
And, any settlement mean that the crooks get off easy. In order to win this we have to be prepared to lose it all. Hopefully the people who matter are digging in.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Paul Allen and Mark Cuban are real men… Not some cowardly sissies who are afraid of Stern.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
It almost seems Bennett has made this personal. He could easily go buy another team (NO/Memphis/Charlotte) and move them with little to no hesitation. Yet he persists on us. Doesn’t make any sense to me.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Big Worm— I would do it no questions asked. I think as much as I hate to say this is that we need to start looking at the leverage we have toward Clay and Stern and use it to get another team. If we can get that I would do it. If we could just get a guarentee for a new franchise in 2010 i would do it. This sucks!!!!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Memphis + Oklahoma City > Vancouver + Seattle
No
Brains
Association
April 18th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Big_Worm, I’d still say no to that deal. I want this current team.
I’m willing for the NBA to leave for good in order to have a shot at keeping the current team. No matter what Stern says, I believe the NBA will be here eventually if this team leaves.
Stern can’t ban Seattle for life.
And I’ll say it again, STFU about this team being gone for good, Ian.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Hey, Rossi broker that 75mil and you will be elected!
boycott the key and any sponsors!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
RIght, right South Florida …I give up on Pro Sports, its not worth my emotion. But, I’m notletting this occur without it destroying as much credibility as possible. Lets expose all these fucking bastards for what they are. Extortion artists, they care nothing about the cities they inhabit and feed from. Rip the vail and expose these underhanded activity for what it really is. enough.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Go Seahawks and Mavs.
I’ll always remember who stuck to their words.
Fuk the Kings and the Jazz.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Courtsense, sign me up for not giving a cent toward the Clay ownership group!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Also, Stern can’t say the truth because it will be used in court. Simple as that.
Stern has to stick to one story, he really doesn’t have a choice but to keep lying.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Maybe boycotting next year’s games in Seattle is not the answer. Sellouts would make a stronger statement,
Fight it out in media and in courts, while strengthening your case with huge fan turnout.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
So… if everyone boycotts the Sonics.
How much money do the ownership groups lose?
Anyone done a study yet?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
You might as well divorce yourself from the Seahawks and Mariners. Whats the point of investing anything in professional sports? These teams are not ours. The illusion is created by the business to suck money and emotion from all of those foolish enough to give a shit. There is no team or owner worth your time, money and devotion.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
We must keep fighting this long battle. Major props to Cuban and Allen that are standing up to realize the truth of this situation!!! The other owners just don’t have a heart and soul to keep the Sonics here. They will deeply regret this votes.
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
I think we burned enough bridge that as long as Stern is the commissioner, Seattle won’t get another team if this Sonics team leave. So I will definitely boycott and bleed the hell out of Bennent
April 18th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
No, boycott is the answer. Do NOT waste another minute or dollar on the Sonics.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
No to expansion!
Just another bad day in this crappy situation. Stern could stuff a sack with all his sad cliches.
Save Our Sonics!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
for me, it’s this team or no team at all. if we were to get a new team there are 2 games i’ll be attending: the 1st being the inagural game, the 2nd being the one where gp has his jersey retired. after that i’m done
April 18th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Just another darn day for people who this whole mess. Just don’t understand why people are so stuck-up, rude and lie so much. We must keep fighting and get major coverage and headlines.
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Just another darn day for people in this whole mess. Just don’t understand why people are so stuck-up, rude and lie so much. We must keep fighting and get major coverage and headlines.
SAVE OUR SONICS!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
The BOG reallly did have to approve this, or they’d be opening themselves up to a lawsuit from Bennett (I think).
So… Ballmer shoould go and overpay for one of their precious northeast teams (Boston or New York) or something, buy out the lease & move them here. What could the NBA do to stop it?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Stern seems like he’s half asleep during his press conference. Did i hear him right? he said the Key Arena proposal has been there for 4 years and its been tried 4 or 5 times and nothing gets done. So Stern is just going to shut the door on us like that? pathetic, absolutely pathetic. Ballmers group was the white knight in shining armor…Stern is a f’ing lying ahole.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Well, K-man, that would be great and all, however, the owners of those teams would never sell out to some out of state chump like Howie did. Never.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
K-man Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
So… Ballmer shoould go and overpay for one of their precious northeast teams (Boston or New York) or something, buy out the lease & move them here. What could the NBA do to stop it?
I was saying the same thing to a friend today, maybe Gates could get involved and he could buy the Knicks & Ballmer could buy the Celtics and they could both play in Seattle. LOL
April 18th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
I do agree with Furness somewhat where he said that Stern did leave an opening with his comments. He didn’t slam the door.
BOTH he and Bennett said they would like to open up communication with Seattle, which means they DO NOT want this to go to court.
Seattle wants basketball. NBA wants to leave. Maybe Bennett will finally learn the meaning of “good faith” negotiations.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
if key arena proposal has been there for years, then why didnt Stern present it to Bennett? or did he?…
April 18th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
From a totally biased Sonics fan standpoint; NO DEAL! THIS TEAM OR NO TEAM!
But from a business standpoint; Big Worm’s settlement might be too good to pass up.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
New York, Chicago and Boston. Teams in those regions are untouchable in my opinion.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Can an on-line discussion of boycotts be used in court to support Bennett’s case?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
You guys…. direct your feelings and anger at media people!!! You need their support,
April 18th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Does Ian Furness really annoy anyone? I am listening to KJR online and think that Seattle has some pretty inept radio personailities. I wish y’all could come to Houston and hear Charlie Pullulo, it’s like having a hometown Dan Patrick. Intelligent sportstalk should be a right of every city.
Sonicsfans, I feel for you deeply. I grew up with the NBA and it held my heart and soul. I loved the Rockets/Sonics playoff matchups in the 90’s. Detlef Shrempf (spelling?) was a Rockets KILLER! In fact my friends and I have a shot in Houston appropriately called “The Detlef”.
Watching the way that the NBA operates on a business scale has really become offputting. I don’t have the childhood love that I once had and felt deeply for pro bball. David Stern has given my passion a black eye. I can’t imagine a Houston Rockets/OK Supersonics matchup… that’s not basketball. That’s an abomination!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
This part is purely speculation and something to ponder, and just a rant for others to think about.
Duran’t contract is up in 2 more years. Would you settle for a buyout of the lease for $75 million, and a guarantee that when the renovation (we just got the last $75 million from Clay) of Key Arena is complete the NBA will grant us an expansion team called the Sonics. We go 2 years without basketball, and at the end of those 2 years Kevin Durant leaves OK city for the new expansion team in Seattle. Kevin Durant WILL NOT resign with the Oklahoma franchise! I know that’s a wild scenario, but Bennett and Stern do not want this to go to trial, nor be stuck here for 2 more years. Would you accept the deal?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Stop shoving the Negotiation down our throats.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Chris…. this is one of the all-time best titles for a thread on this site ever. Nice.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Nick Collison and Kevin Durant along with Kevin Calabro are opposed to this move to stupid OK.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Not to protect Larry Miller but when People were saying Larry Miller said he was voting no did they get Balzers GM and Jazz Owner mixed up?
Like yesterday… Don’t get down folk’s it’s just heating up and now we go on to the next step.
What’s the next step? Well Brian and the Boy’s & Girl’s with SOS will tell us shortly but we’ve talked about
1) draft parites
2) going to the draft
3) Keep pressure on Gregoire, and let’s start working Rossi too. Chopp, Brown and the rest.
4) Call City Hall and let Nickles know how vital a team solution as oppossed to a financial solution is.
5) Ian and Frosty are playing the game they’re trying to evoke calls, text, and e-mails. Give them what they want, tell em we’re not giving up. Hit the Times and PI Opinion Sites also, don’t let the anti crowd get dominance on the issue.
6) Have fun!!!! This is Sports let’s make sticking it to Clay and The Boys along with Stern our Off Season Conditioning for when teams are in town next year.
7) Also, Let’s hit some Mariner’s Games and while we’re there start chants, hold up signs, let’s use the fact that we are a 4 Team Market to our advantage. Root for the home team, The M’s, be respectful but still at certain times let’s get the word out to a large group of rabid fans.
I’ve got to head to Scout Camp with my son’s for the week-end but I’ld like some feedback before I head out. Let me know are you with me we can make life a blast for us and a pain for Feet of Clay, Strerno et all.
Joshu@ and other SLC Folks let’s see if we can hit a Jazz Game Next Week and Hold up some Signs at the right time. Why not Coordinate with other playoff cities and fans and do it all on the same night?
Let me know let’s kick around ideas instead of sadness. This is FUN!!! Let’s kick it into gear Bruther’s and Sistuhs! Can I Have A WITNESS!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
NO EXPANSION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
David Stern can’t live forever.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
if it were up to me, if a settlement paid off the Key’s debt, paid the remaining 75M for it’s renovation and kept the team’s history in Seattle (with a GUARANTEE of a team), I’d be hard-pressed not to take it.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Larry Miller is also the name of the Blazers’ president - who represented Allen at the BOG meeting.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Major disturbance at the draft would be excellent. Soemthing peaceful but disturbing to the entire process. Would love to see Stern sweat trying to keep his smile on with a hord of angry Sonics fans making a serious ruckus in the venue.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
What about starting a new movement?
SEATTLE SONICS SUPPORT EXPANSION TO OKC.
Why can’t that be the expansion deal instead of placating Seattle? They can even give Clay Bennett the new team for all we care.
I also am POSITIVE, based on a lot of OKC commentary, that it would make their consciences feel a lot better too. That’s how you get Oklahoma City on board. THEY CAN BE YOUR BIGGEST ALLY!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
“New York, Chicago and Boston. Teams in those regions are untouchable in my opinion.”
Not long ago a lot of people would have had Seattle on that list, too (Especially with a wealthy local owner). LA should be on that list, too.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Big-Worm…
NO - No way I would take the deal you describe and no way do I think it is wise for Gregorie/Nichols etc. to even discuss it.
They need a united front with a clear vision of keeping this team here - then they need to keep theri eye on the ball. As soon as they start negotiating for another team they are in trouble.
It is this team or no team.
Exansion sucks - Plus as a matter of principle I don’t want this move to happen - it is wrong - plus I think this team with KD & JG & High pick in Juen has a bright future.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
I’m still convinced that if we could find that $75 million and win the court case, Bennett will sell this Sonics team to Ballmer.
Am I naive?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Thanks JJ, I thought the post title was appropriate for today.
Big Chris
April 18th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
More on a Seattle-OKC Alliance:
The best part about it is OKC can vote against the tax issue. They really have it in their power to derail Clay’s interest in even going to OKC.
This is a very good strategy. Don’t you all see this?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
LA has lost to NFL teams very recently. I don’t Seattle has ever been in the same league as New York, Chicago and Boston.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Isn’t Bennett’s case something like this:
A lease has been signed with the purpose of generating revenue for the City.
Due to fan disinterest the lease will not serve its purpose of generating revenue for the City.
The lease is being enforced for punative reasons, and not for its intended purpose.
Witness exhibit A: an on-line discussion of a fan boycott from the team’s most committed fans.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
No to expansion fellas. No way.
Stick to your guns. We all knew this vote we go down — you are just acting emotionally.
They may say they will, but Bennett and Stern won’t be able to hold out for two years, especially if the Ballmer plan gets funded.
Stay the course!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Pardon The Interruption on ESPN was just ripping on the move from Seattle to OKC.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
the Fan is right.
if Stern’s talking expansion, it needs to be directed at OKC, not at Seattle.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
Could I get a legal opinion on my conjecture above.
Am I being both stupid and paranoid?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I’m seriously thinking we need a group to go to NYC for the draft. I know it was brought up in some e-mail exchanges within the SOS group, but after this I really think it needs to be done. Even a small group of say 10-20 people (of course the more the better) to represent the SOS movement and let the NBA, the media that we are not going away.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Im liking it South Florida Fan, That’s what I’m talking about. Let’s spitball ideas and find solutions!!!!!
We’ve shown an ability to work together let’s keep it up!!!!
Keep those ideas a floatin!
Props SFF!!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Paul Allen may be interested in moving his Trailblazers to Seattle if the Sonics eventually do leave. Even though we’ve been big rivals in the past, they are more like the Sonics South now that they are no longer the JailBlazers. Things changed when they signed Nate McMillan to be their head coach and then they drafted Martell Webster and Brandon Roy to strengthen their Seattle connection. I was really hoping that the Sonics would trade for Brandon Roy on draft day.
I want to fight for our Sonics and support the team while they are here (if we don’t support them, we’ll kill any chance of keeping them or getting another team), but, if we don’t end up keeping them here, Portland is really the only team that I would support as the new Sonics. I know that no one wants to think about that, though. It was just a thought. We have a lot of work ahead of us.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Matthew Says:
Wake up people Pro sports are not any more part of your community as the local Walmart.
Too true.
courtsense Says:
HOW MANY OF YOU ARE PREPARED TO BOYCOTT THE GAMES (IN PERSON) IN ORDER TO MAXIMIZE BENNETT’S LOSSES?!
I took that stance the same day I initiated my boycott of Starbucks: Day the sale was announced.
My wife just came home and asked, “Is that bourbon?”
I didn’t have the nerve to tell her there was bourbon in my glass for the last six hours. Hellooo honeeeeee.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Its in the owners and Stern best interest to suck the city dry and require a fucking palace. They can’t been seen excepting anything else or they’ll lose their strangle hold on communities in teh future. I hope every NBA franchise ends up in shitholes like OKC, it would be great to see a supposed major league sports league havings the majority of its teams in substandard towns like OKC. Sorry OKC is in teh middle of nowhere and isn’t worht two shits IMO.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Who else besides me think that Clayvid are desperate for this not to go to trial (during the NBA finals none the less)?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
NO NEW TEAM.
If Seattle loses Durant, Green, and the draft picks (Rose?), I don’t want to see another ounce of the NBA in Seattle.
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
NO SETTLEMENT!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
SFF, we appreciate your support and we are willing to do whatever we can to keep the sonics here. but right now it’s very difficult to think about our next move while our emotions are scattered. we are trying to calm ourselves down so we can come back to reality. this whole thing sucks and it feels like we are in a nightmare. we will be back at it. we just need to vent out our emotions.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Ok, here’s my plan. I’m going to put it together in a blog piece:
I’m flying to Baltimore in 2 hours, so I won’t be able to promote it. We need to reach out to OKC with the plan.
I’ll link the proposal to you as soon as I’m done.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
D_G, i thought bennett’s case was more that the lease lawsuit was a farce to try and force him to sell. it’s the stupidest lawsuit since Eddie Vedder tried to sue Scott Stapp for vocal infringement.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
DG,
(IMO) The lease was also signed with the purpose of allowing the citizens of Seattle to have civic pride and to be able to see the games.
In fact, that’s the whole reason for “specific performance”, that the team HAS TO play here at the Key for the benefit of Seattle both culturally and financially.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
I do not want the PORTLAND TrailBlazers. That would be horrible, absolutley horrible! How anybody going through this mess can even think about taking ateam from another city and putting our cities name on it and being happy I can not releate. UNQUESTIONABLY NOT AN OPTION!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Maybe we can check with FedEx and see if the other owners are getting their balls delivered anytime soon!! Way to go Cuban and Allen, and like a great saying says “Id rather die standing up then living on my knees!! and thats exactly what the owners who approved this are doing–living on their knees! This is what we expected from the organized crime of the NBA, and this fight is long from Over!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Going to Albuquerque to bowl Nationals. We just changed our team name to “Save Our Sonics”
April 18th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Clay was vitualy BEGGING today for a cash settlement on the June lawsuit. H emade it crystal clear he would like to just buy out the lease.
If Nichols hangs tough it will be fascinating to see what happens.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
On The Draft and Hitting New York, I’ve made some calls and can get some trade I think. If we’re still up for it give me a holler.
More ideas kid’s let’s work a plan here and really really show what the Northwest and all our FRIENDS can do!!!!!
Please… We need the synergy going here especially today!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Hey, lets just have alternating house parties on game nights. We can all watch the Supes for free on FSN and national broadcasts (which should increase steadily over the next 2 years as Durant and Green continue to grow).
Screw buy tix and merch from Clay Bennett. Don’t do the man ANY favors.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Lets boycott Ian Furness and have KJR bring back David Locke
April 18th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Of course Stern and Bennett don’t want this going to trial, and that’s why it MUST! Destroy our nose eyes and lips to spite our face, SCORCHED FUCKING EARTH!!!!! Fuckk all.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
SFF, hasn’t the OKC tax stuff already been completed?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
“D_G, i thought bennett’s case was more that the lease lawsuit was a farce to try and force him to sell. it’s the stupidest lawsuit since Eddie Vedder tried to sue Scott Stapp for vocal infringement. ”
TB, you are referring to Bennett’s second law suit. His first is against the city. He is suing the city . . . not the other way around. He is suing the city in an attempt to get them to stop enforcing the lease. His argument is that the lease is not serving its intended purpose but could through a remedial action (a buy-out).
April 18th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
When 2 of the richest owners vote no, maybe some of the other owners should take notices. Maybe these guys understand how to make money?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
I think the only way Bennett sells is if he’s granted an expansion team by the NBA. Period.
Even as expected as this vote was, it’s still depressing. Kudos to to Paul Allen, his vote is appreciated.
Got to focus on the lease suit and the aftermath; a lot of things can happen in two full years. Clay and Stern have to put up a steadfast face now for negotiating purposes, in fact, as things get closer to trial, i fully expect Stern to pronounce (in so many words) that if Seattle doesn’t settle the case, they’ll never get another NBA team. Doesn’t make it necessarily so.
And, if the city holds firm on not settling the lease case, and then wins it, that’s two really odd, lame-duck seasons, pretty much unprecedented in pro sports as far as I can recall, and a real attention-grabber for all the wrong reasons for the league. I could definitely see some type of settlement being brokered in that scenario.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
On what to do next season…. Do we boycott games - Have a “Strike”
of Clay’s team?
I think this is a very legitimate question that needs to be considered after cooling off a bit and seeing what the spring brings us. I’d likley listen hard to whatever SOS leaders recommend. I’m a season ticket holder & if Brian R. says “Strike” next season I likley would boycott all games next year.
Also - anyone know what law firm(s) are representing Sonics Season ticket holders in their class action law suits? I probably ought to get in on one of those if it is not too late.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
I’ve been boycotting Ian and KJR as whole since last Fall when Groz and Gas were too busy talking about Nascar and fucking horse while flicking the Sonics issue off the discussion table as pointless because it was over. KJR IS FUCKING WORTHLESS. WORTHLESS. I can’t stand any of thse hacks. Fuck you all if your reading this.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Amen to bringing back David Locke….I used to dislike Locke when he first came on the air back in ‘98 but OMG I’d just do soooo much to have Locke back on the air!!!!!!!!!!!!!! E&I sucks! I don’t get why they did not give Dick Fain his own show, he’s been around for DECADES!!!!!!!! Ian is just negative and never has anything 2 say..
April 18th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I’m so glad I’m going to Las Vegas tomorrow, the snow in April, and this bulls*&it from the NBA I need to let loose and have a few drinks. I’ll be sporting my SOS shirt while I’m there to
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Steve P was just on KJR. I believe that he thinks that we will get another team but not these Sonics. I want this team let OK have an expansion team. I will not support an expansion team.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Is it time to make an ulitimatum to the governer and tell her we want a key arena resolution by xxxx date and if it is not done we officially back Rossi and hold a press conference or make an official announcement that we, the sonics fans are casting their vote for Rossi?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
BK, Allen and Cuban have the character and money to grow their imaginary balls to the size of planets. The other owners are jsut shitheads too scared and powerless to really do anything outside of what Stern tells them.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Maybe someone can clarify the OKC tax situation. I think it’s only completed if they move now. I don’t think it applied for 2010+ Somebody explain it to us.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
If you’e Rooting for/following portland, it means the nba wins. It didn’t lose any fans over this atrocity.
I can’t fathom how people would want to follow portland.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
A strike would be great, as long as the city doesn’t suffer financially. Does Clay still have to pay the same amount to the city despite what he makes off of the Sonics? If so, I say STRIKE!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
D_G, did you just claim that the city wasn’t suing Bennett? What do you think the lease litigation is?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
I’ve already called the Governors office I told her she’s lost my vote. I don’t care if we find out the SOnics are here indefinetly tomorrow, because, in my opinion it will be in spite of Gregoires complete lack of leadership an action. She’s worthless and needs to voted out.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Before we have a boycott, let’s try clearing out the bad vibes between Seattle and Bennett. I’m going to send him a couple of knee pads so he’ll be ready for his next meeting with Stern.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Isn’t Bennett suing the city to get out of the lease?
Or is it that the city is suing Bennett to enforce the lease?
Who is the defendant here?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Unfortuantely there is no way Clay is giving up this team, not with KD JG & Beasley/Rose plus all of those first round picks. I hope some how Howard wins his case.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
IDEAS… I LOVE IT KEEP EM COMING. NO SUCH THING AS A BAD IDEA!!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
An Idea for everyone here & BR/Steve to consider….
I wonder if we need to have an open SOS meeting in the next week or 2 to brainstorm and develop a specific plan - some way were we can determine how to best use the incredible passion & energy & commitment that is represented among all of you on this site?
What can we do together if we get more organized & focused?
My guess is plenty.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
BTW:
My boycott starts today!!!!
NO NBA PLAYOFFS!!!!!
Tell Neilson’s my TV is turned off.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
the city is suing bennett to enforce the lease.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
‘BK, Allen and Cuban have the character and money to grow their imaginary balls to the size of planets. The other owners are jsut shitheads too scared and powerless to really do anything outside of what Stern tells them. ”
no … Stern works for the owners, not the other way around.
here’s what’s up, for the 3rd time: you have the maloofs getting ready to bail for Vegas if they can, heisley getting pushed out of memphis, indy having serious problems, charlotte struggling, milwaukee struggling, new orleans still getting back on their feet and not ready yet … all those owners can’t block Bennett when they will be the ones in his shoes in the next couple of years.
Take some of that energy and give Mayor Nickels some props for sticking to his guns and keeping the league in court. He deserves all the thumbs up he can get and to date has been pretty much the only politico to show a spine in this whole state.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Chris C
You are overestimating Clay’s attachment to this team and those players. He wants a team, any team, in OKC, as easily as possible.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
I think the NBA will fight like hell to settle, and then and only then they will buckle and promise us an expansion team with a large settlement fee. Enough to fund the rest of the Key Arena renovation. Hope the Mayor knows that the majority of Sonics fans seem to be against an expansion team. He holds the trump card, but will he know how to play it?
April 18th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
here is Bennett’s suit
http://tinyurl.com/6b9exo
April 18th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
“Maybe someone can clarify the OKC tax situation. I think it’s only completed if they move now. I don’t think it applied for 2010+ Somebody explain it to us. ”
I think that is the case but will have to check on that … I believe if they don’t have a team by 2010 it expires but I could be wrong.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Hopefully Cantwell/Murrays so-called ‘written hints’ at possible monopoly/trust stuff is true.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
“Maybe someone can clarify the OKC tax situation. I think it’s only completed if they move now. I don’t think it applied for 2010+ Somebody explain it to us.”
OKC tax situation: OK Governor Brad Henry signed the tax rebate into law yesterday. The OKC sales tax extension for arena upgrades has been approved by the City Council and the voters of Oklahoma City. If OKC did not have a lease agreement in place by June 2009, the practice facility and some NBA-specific portions of the arena upgrade would have been cancelled.
As Clay Bennett briefly mentioned in today’s press conference, Oklahoma City and the Sonics have already signed a lease agreement that is written to begin in 2008, 2009, or 2010 depending on the resolution of the lease in Seattle. It did not take effect until the relocation was approved by the NBA. With the approval of the Board of Governors today, the lease in OKC is considered valid and in effect, therefore the requirements to build the practice facility and NBA-specific upgrades have already been met. It is too late to block the Oklahoma tax rebate or Ford Center upgrades.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Recently I’ve thought ESPN has done a good job reporting on the Sonics potential move. Although, it was a little to late, in my opinion. But today the BOG approves moving the Sonics to OKC and Isiah gets fired. Guess which story is their headline. I guess there is an East Coast bias.
April 18th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
if Clay wants a team as easy as possible, why didn’t he buy a team that wanted to move? it’s not like there’s a shortage of them.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
There is no Bennett “suit.”
April 18th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
I would be the happiest person alive if we were awarded a team and then Durant came here as a free agent. And while I’m dreaming Cuban would own the team.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
I’m not sure striking will help much. One of the things that really annoyed me about this season is almost every game the opposing fans were louder than the Sonics fans. I think this was due to people switching their allegiances (not real fans obviously). Those people will still attend the games to see their Kobe’s and Nash’s
Saying that though I have no doubt ticket sales in Seattle will not be even close to this year’s (which were not great anyway). Also they’re going to come in very late on their season tickets and it would be interesting to see how many of those end up getting sold
April 18th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
“Kyle Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
If you’e Rooting for/following portland, it means the nba wins. It didn’t lose any fans over this atrocity.
I can’t fathom how people would want to follow portland. ”
True story. The night of the Dallas game, I bought myself a Brandon Roy jersey from the team shop for $22. When I got home that night, I put it on and looked in the mirror. It just looked and felt wrong.
I don’t think I’ll ever wear that jersey.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
# AkDan Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Recently I’ve thought ESPN has done a good job reporting on the Sonics potential move. Although, it was a little to late, in my opinion. But today the BOG approves moving the Sonics to OKC and Isiah gets fired. Guess which story is their headline. I guess there is an East Coast bias.
Dude, the NBA did that on purpose.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
I think Bennett desperately wantsa team, but he most certainly wants the one he has with Durant, Green and Beasley/Rose …that will only increase the teams chances of success in OKC, the team being exciting or successful. Its the only way all those dustbowl degenerates wil pay attention, that and half-priced tickets.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
We could just get a whole lot signatures on a petition and give it to the governor and tell here that these people are not voting for here, then maybe she will realize.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
“if Clay wants a team as easy as possible, why didn’t he buy a team that wanted to move? it’s not like there’s a shortage of them.”
There’s one person to blame for that. David Stern
April 18th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
“An Idea for everyone here & BR/Steve to consider….
I wonder if we need to have an open SOS meeting in the next week or 2 to brainstorm and develop a specific plan - some way were we can determine how to best use the incredible passion & energy & commitment that is represented among all of you on this site?
What can we do together if we get more organized & focused?
My guess is plenty. ”
There’s a couple things everyone reading this can do - first call Mayor Nickels’ office and tell him he has done the right thing by pursuing the litigation. We’ve been asking for our representatives to go to bat for us in meaningful ways - Mayor Nickels just did that.
I have a very strong feeling that a lot of the owners got some serious sunshine blown up their poop chutes by Bennett and Stern about the possibility of the City settling - give Nickels props for standing firm!
April 18th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
Kyle-
100% agree, we can’t follow NBA / Portland.
JJ / SFF,
I agree with you guys. Stern and Bennett both said that the best scenario is the one that makes the most people happy.
Honestly, wouldn’t the scenario that makes the most people happy be an expansion team in OKC and we keep ours? Who wouldn’t be happy with that (except other owners having a diluted product…damn it!)?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
Portland isn’t coming here. Drop that idea all together.
A. Paul Allen wouldn’t pull a Bennett on that city.
B. They are locked into that lease for a while.
“if Clay wants a team as easy as possible, why didn’t he buy a team that wanted to move? it’s not like there’s a shortage of them.”
Like who? Who wants to move? Either way……those teams aren’t/weren’t for sale.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Monoply/Trust stuff from Cantwell and Murray? What?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
I was about to ask the same thing…
April 18th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Like who? Who wants to move? Either way……those teams aren’t/weren’t for sale.
Memphis/Charlotte/New Orleans
I bet the right offer would make them sell.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
More detail please about Cantwell and Murray. Are you just guessing?
also, what did they say on PTI?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
But they are not for sale…..thats the point.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Does anyone have a working e-mail address for Stern?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
What a suprise. The Isaiah firing is the first thing they show on sportscenter.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Here’s a wild idea, and I have no idea about the $$ that it will take.
The NBA playoffs are on TNT, right? We can buy a commerical timeslot (30 seconds or 1 minute), and piece together how Seattle has been mis-treated. And ask for other NBA city to support us?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
claybennettscock@davidsternsmouth.com
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
D_G Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
BTW:
“My boycott starts today!!!!
NO NBA PLAYOFFS!!!!!
Tell Neilson’s my TV is turned off. ”
I’m out too, nothing but “court”ing the NBA.
I’m hoping to get to see some action in person, I’ll take time off work for that, I’m up for court reporter.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Here’s a wild idea, and I have no idea about the $$ that it will take.
The NBA playoffs are on TNT, right? We can buy a commerical timeslot (30 seconds or 1 minute), and piece together how Seattle has been mis-treated. And ask for other NBA city to support us?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Does the thought of Beasley in OKC make anyone else laugh out loud?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
More detail please about Cantwell and Murray. Are you just guessing?
There was spectulation that some the the wording in their letter hinted that a lawsuit would follow if reloaction was approved. Something to do with “breach of trust” or something.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Bennett bought the Sonics because they had the least amount of time left on the lease.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Menace Says:
April 18th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
Portland isn’t coming here. Drop that idea all together.
A. Paul Allen wouldn’t pull a Bennett on that city.
B. They are locked into that lease for a while.
“if Clay wants a team as easy as possible, why didn’t he buy a team that wanted to move? it’s not like there’s a shortage of them.”
Like who? Who wants to move? Either way……those teams aren’t/weren’t for sale.
Wouldn’t want them, but wouldn’t Allen have to break a lease with himself?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
The Isiah thing was planned, the NBA did that on purpose to distract the controversy…
CONSPIRACY!!
April 18th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
are there any OKC people on here who know of a way to help with the expansion thoughts?
April 18th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
What also gripes me is that Gregoire sends Rupp there to engage the NBA in ways to bring a ne team to seattle after the sonics are gone. Where was any kindof engagement on her part when we were attempting to keep them here in the first place. Hey! Look chrissy the cows are gone. Better shut the barn door. SHEEEEESH. To bad Rossi wasn’t there to shut the door in the first place.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Well, that and they were for sale.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Who cares what they say on PTI, Kornheiser doesn’t give two shits about anything west of the Mississippi river. Seattle mights as well be located on the moon. His opinion counts for nothing.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
I’m of the opinion that selling out Key Arena and shouting “Save our Sonics!” at the top of our lungs for 41 games next year is a bigger statement than boycotting the games entirely.
There’s way more negative possibilities for boycotting all the games than there are if we sell out every game.
If we sell out every game, does it mean we’re giving Bennett money to leave town in 2 years? Maybe …
But if we boycott the team and don’t attend games. Do you think that’s going to look good for the politicians? If you were a politician and nobody was attending any games. Wouldn’t you figure the fans just don’t care at all. And therefore you would have no reason to find public funding or even private funding to support a team that apparently no one even supports.
In my opinion, boycotting is NOT the answer. And would only cause the Sonics to leave Seattle that much faster.
For all of you who attended the Sonics final home game this season against Dallas. How POWERFUL was that “Save our Sonics” chant at the end of the game? Just imagine that for 81 more home games (the two remaming years). Something would more than likely get done to keep OUR team here.
As much as today sucks we have to all stay calm and remember this is what everyone expected. Now we need to emphasize to the Mayor and the Politicians that we DON’T want to settle. That we need to air the NBA’s dirty laundry in court and keep our Sonics here for AT LEAST 2 more years. That’ll allow us two more years worth of possible solutions and support from all of us!
Don’t let David Stern scare you. Even if he threatens that the NBA will never come back to Seattle. As someone said, the man won’t live forever and he certainly won’t be commissioner forever either. There’s absolutely no way the NBA would refuse the Seattle market for eternity.
We need to stick to our guns and SAVE our Team. That’s why we’ve been fighting this whole time. Not to settle when things look bad. We fight back and make them wish they never did this in the first place.
I’m not giving up until their has been a settlement, no court, Howard’s law suit is over, and the Sonics are officially playing in OKC. Until then, FIGHT WITH ME!
SAVE OUR SONICS!
April 18th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
LET THE SONICS STAY!
EXPANSION IN OK!
April 18th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
They should put Stern on Around the Horn. That way whenever he starts yapping they can hit the “mute” button.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
I don’t hate Stern or Bennett.
Stern is right, we don’t have an arena.
Bennett is trying to bring basketball to his hometown.
Our politicians deserve 90% of the blame for this situation.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
I’m not giving ANY of my money to that fucking worthless sack of shit. So, going to any Sonics game is out of the questions. An empty arena with thousands protesting around the entrances for 41 games is a better option, and keeps our money out of hte pockets of Bennett and his cocksucking assosciates.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
“Does anyone have a working e-mail address for Stern? ”
I’ve got better:
http://tiny.cc/e7GEd
This is to the e-mail for the NBA shop. This is the e-mail to where they make their $$$ . . . not to the void where their angry complaints float neglected in the etherworld.
Send your messages to the NBA shop!!!!!!!
April 18th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
The tax in OKC is just a continuation of a current 1 cent tax for a project called MAPS. This has been an incredibly successful tax going to cultural, education an other civic projects. It was easy to pass simply because it only kept up an existing tax.
April 18th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
It’s not cheap propably around 100k but… If we get with Comcast and other Cable outlet’s in NBA Cities we could buy time on those stations for a lot cheaper. Maybe all markets for 10k, Also Satelite Ads are way inexpensive.
If you want to look at those kind of things we would want to get with an Ad Agency. Traditionally Agencies get paid 15% by the Broadcaster from what ad sollars are placed so no retainer or anything like that.
I don’t know what’s in the SOS Coffers but we may want to work on some funding or a Bennettfactor… get it Bennettfactor to help with cost. They are out there.