NBA Legend Spencer Haywood Hints at Seattle and Las Vegas Franchise Potential

LOS ANGELES: According to NBA Hall of Famer Spencer Haywood, the populations of Seattle and Las Vegas are enthusiastic about the possibility of acquiring new NBA franchises, a notion that has gained traction following recent discussions.

Seattle has been without an NBA team since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, becoming the Thunder.

Las Vegas, which has never been home to an NBA franchise, has evolved into a prominent sports center, bolstered by the achievements of the WNBA’s Aces and the NHL’s Golden Knights.

Haywood alluded to conversations in Las Vegas this week involving NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the NBA Board of Governors, noting that the meeting’s announcement has generated excitement among residents of Seattle and Las Vegas.

“They convened meetings just yesterday. Adam and everyone—Seattle and Las Vegas. It’s quite exciting,” Haywood remarked.

“I am based in Las Vegas but I was just visiting Seattle. We just unveiled a statue for Lenny Wilkins. Preparations are underway.”

Haywood, a former teammate of fellow Hall of Famer Wilkins on the Sonics, further mentioned that their mementos are being securely stored at the Hall of Fame until the team’s anticipated return.

“All my memorabilia, along with Lenny Wilkins’ and Gary Payton’s items, are in safekeeping at the Hall of Fame, awaiting their return,” he shared with a smile.

Haywood, a former Olympian, emphasized the eagerness for basketball in Seattle, where numerous fans gathered to honor Wilkins despite the absence of a team.

“The fans are really eager. Despite not having a team, thousands showed up for Lenny Wilkins’ statue unveiling,” Haywood stated.

Haywood also recognized the sports enthusiasm in Las Vegas, where construction recently commenced on a new stadium for Major League Baseball’s Athletics.

“It’s the same situation in Las Vegas. We’ve observed it with the Aces, who have secured championships, as well as the Golden Knights,” he noted.

“Sports are certainly a positive influence.”

Commissioner Silver has previously suggested expanding the 30-team league, with Seattle and Las Vegas being prime contenders, although an official announcement is still awaited.