Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson have made their stance clear in a letter to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver: the Portland Trail Blazers must remain in the city, and the aging Moda Center needs renovation.
The letter represents a significant move by Oregon’s prominent political figures to advocate for the Blazers, especially following the estate of Paul Allen’s announcement in May that the team is on the market.
Adding to the urgency, the unrenovated condition of the Moda Center could pose challenges for the team’s future, and Silver has acknowledged that while he prefers the team stays in Portland, a new arena may be necessary.
In response to the evolving situation, local business leaders, former players, and other influential figures have joined forces to form a new group called Rip City Forever. This coalition has also addressed their concerns in a letter to the governor’s office, emphasizing the importance of taking prompt action to retain the team.
Their message is clear: Portland must competently compete with other cities, many of which may be trying to attract the new Blazers owner. The coalition’s letter urges city and state officials to seriously consider significant updates to the Moda Center, a reimagining of the Rose Quarter, or the construction of a new arena entirely.
One proposal suggests building a new arena at Lloyd Center or another central city location, which they argue could not only secure the Blazers’ future but also revitalize downtown and stimulate further development in the Albina neighborhood.
The Rip City Forever group boasts a diverse array of local leaders, including former Trail Blazer great Clyde Drexler and gubernatorial candidate Chris Dudley. The group also includes Duncan Wyse from the Oregon Business Council, as well as former state Senator Betsy Johnson and local business leaders Sadie Lincoln and Kim Malek.
The Moda Center, owned by the city of Portland, is among the older venues in the NBA that has not seen significant upgrades in recent years. As discussions about the future of the Blazers unfold, it becomes increasingly crucial for Portland to address the potential challenges regarding the team’s long-term commitment to the city.
The sale frenzy in the NBA has seen franchises fetching record prices, and while Silver has raised the possibility of expansion, no immediate plans are in place. With the current lease at the Moda Center in effect until 2030—with an option for an additional five-year extension—there is concern about the team’s portability under new ownership if that owner lacks a commitment to Portland.
In their letter, Governor Kotek and Mayor Wilson emphasized the deep-rooted connection the Blazers have with the Portland community, stating, “The Blazers are in our DNA, and at the center of what makes this community so special.”
They explicitly voiced their support for the renovation efforts, declaring, “We fully support renovating the Moda Center to become a point of pride for the Blazers and for our city.”
The local leaders have expressed their readiness to explore necessary public-private partnerships to facilitate these renovations, hoping to galvanize support not just from the community but also from potential investors.
With unity from political leaders, the business community, and former players, Portland is rallying to ensure that the Trail Blazers remain a vital part of the city’s identity and future.
image source from：opb
