- “I would see it as a failure if we did not keep the team in Portland,” Silver said.
- He praised Portland’s fan base and said the league wants the franchise rooted in the Pacific Northwest.
- Silver noted owner Tom Dundon discussed public-private arena strategies with other owners during the Board of Governors meeting.
- State and county officials have committed hundreds of millions toward the broader Rose Quarter project per reporting.
- Portland City Council remains divided over a proposed roughly $275 million city contribution and other financing details.
- A December timeline for certain approvals and the state’s funding window remain focal points for resolving the deal.
- Silver offered the league office as a resource and said Dundon spoke with owners who’ve navigated similar negotiations.
- Failure to reach a sustainable agreement could revive relocation discussions, while a deal would likely keep the franchise in Portland long-term.
- The comments increase public and political attention on the negotiations.
Useful?