Out with the old, in with the old!
If the league decides to bring a team back to Seattle, it won’t just be any team – it will be the revival of the beloved Seattle SuperSonics, complete with their storied history.
The SuperSonics, who were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008 and rebranded as the Thunder, left behind a rich legacy that includes an NBA Championship in 1979 and numerous memorable moments. According to recent reports, if Seattle is awarded an expansion team, the Thunder will cede the SuperSonics’ history back to the new Seattle franchise. This move mirrors the NBA’s decision in 2014 when the Charlotte Hornets reclaimed their history from the New Orleans Pelicans.
The NBA has been considering expansion for several years, with Seattle consistently mentioned as a top candidate. The city’s passionate fan base and the historical significance of the SuperSonics make it a prime location for a new team. While there is no official timeline, sources suggest that the expansion could happen as early as the 2027-28 season.
For Oklahoma City, this change means that the Thunder will be treated as an expansion team from 2008 onwards. This reclassification will allow the Thunder to build their own distinct identity, separate from the SuperSonics’ legacy. The Thunder have already established themselves as a competitive team in the NBA, with a dedicated fan base and a promising future.
The return of the SuperSonics would not only restore a piece of NBA history but also reignite the basketball passion in Seattle. The city has continued to support basketball through various means, including hosting preseason games and supporting local college teams. The revival of the SuperSonics would bring back the iconic green and gold colors, the roaring crowds at KeyArena, and the cherished memories of past glories.
