Seattle sports fans have been clamoring for an NBA and NHL team ever since losing the Sonics to Oklahoma City, and now they have a new, big player in their corner.
Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson announced on Twitter Monday that he has partnered with the Sonics Arena Group to help bring an NBA and NHL team to Seattle.
I'm excited to announce I've partnered w/ the Sonics Arena Group to help bring the @NBA & @NHL to the best fan base in the world.
Seattle.
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) November 14, 2016
Chris Hansen, who is leading the investment group, issued a statement saying he is “thrilled” with Wilson joining the group.
Statement from Chris Hansen on Russell Wilson joining the #SeattleArena investment group: pic.twitter.com/izM0VnlfNp
— Tim Booth (@ByTimBooth) November 14, 2016
Though Wilson probably won’t be able to contribute as much financially to the effort as others, he will bring serious added value to the table in the form of name cache. Having a big player like him adds a friendly, trustworthy face to the group, which is always helpful when it comes to stadium negotiation deals.
Seattle has had a professional hockey team before, but never an NHL team. They were home to the SuperSonics from 1967-2008 until the team moved to Oklahoma City. The NHL has indicated some willingness to explore having a team in Seattle, but the city needs to figure out its stadium situation. The NBA seems to be less open to the idea of expanding to Seattle.
