PORTLAND, Ore. — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed strong support for keeping the Trail Blazers in Portland during a news conference on Tuesday. He stated that failure to secure a long-term arrangement for the team would be a significant setback.
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Silver's comments come after a two-day Board of Governors meeting in New York. He emphasized the league's positive track record in Portland and expressed hope that local leaders and team ownership could reach a beneficial agreement.
The relationship between the Blazers' majority owner Tom Dundon and local officials has been strained due to disputes over contributions for renovations at the Moda Center. Silver acknowledged having discussions with Dundon to facilitate negotiations and pointed out that the Blazers’ owner had the chance to connect with other team owners who faced similar situations.
He indicated a desire to ease tensions in the talks, highlighting the importance of collaboration. “I think he was able to bounce ideas off other owners who’ve been through similar negotiations in other communities. I think there are some lessons to be learned there,” Silver said.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson also underscored the value of community involvement in fostering a sustainable future for the Trail Blazers and the WNBA team, highlighting their role in the regional economy.