Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell created a buzz during his State of the City address by teasing the return of the NBA and the Seattle SuperSonics, only to reveal it was a joke meant to lighten the mood. This moment unfolded at Benaroya Hall, where he humorously displayed a basketball while stating, "This is a long speech. I had to break it up a little here. " The teasing remarks followed an NBA All-Star weekend that yielded no new information regarding league expansion, as Commissioner Adam Silver did not address the topic during his brief media availability. Although Seattle is viewed as a prime candidate for a future NBA franchise, significant hurdles remain, including the need for the Boston Celtics' sale to be finalized, which will set the precedent for expansion fees.

Additionally, plans for a new Las Vegas arena have faced setbacks, adding to the uncertainty surrounding expansion discussions. The loss of the SuperSonics in 2008 continues to resonate with fans, many of whom are hopeful yet wary about the prospect of a team returning to the city. With 17 years since the team's departure and the possibility of waiting another three years or more, the excitement is tempered by the realities of the current sports landscape. Harrell's lighthearted moment serves as a reminder of the community's enduring passion for basketball and the desire to see the SuperSonics return.