Portland, Ore. – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver warned Tuesday that the Trail Blazers walking away from Portland would be a “failure” for the league, the city and the WNBA. Speaking after the NBA Board of Governors meeting in New York, Silver said the league is ready to help all parties find a solution that keeps professional basketball thriving in the Pacific Northwest.
Negotiations at a crossroads
New owner Tom Dundon, who agreed to purchase the Trail Blazers from the estate of Paul Allen in August 2025 for a reported $4.25 billion, has been in tense talks with city officials over a new arena. The current Moda Center, which the team moved into in 1995, is widely regarded as outdated. Silver called it “in the bottom measure of any arena in the league” and stressed that a state‑of‑the‑art facility is essential for NBA, WNBA and community events such as concerts, conventions and graduations.
Funding picture
The city of Portland has pledged $120 million and Multnomah County $101 million toward a $586 million renovation plan, while the state of Oregon has earmarked $365 million. However, state funding is set to expire on Dec. 31 if an agreement is not reached. The city owns the Moda Center, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
Silver offers league assistance
Silver said he and the league office are “offering ourselves to assist all parties” and hopes to “lower the temperature” in the talks. He noted that Dundon has consulted with other owners who have faced similar relocation discussions, suggesting that lessons can be learned from those experiences.
Why a new arena matters
Beyond basketball, a modern arena would boost Portland’s ability to host a wide range of events, generating jobs and tax revenue for the region. Silver emphasized that the community recognizes the need for a facility that meets “objective” standards for today’s multi‑use venues.
Next steps
The league will continue to monitor the situation closely. Silver’s comments signal that the NBA sees Portland as a vital market and is prepared to work with local leaders and the new ownership group to secure a long‑term home for the Trail Blazers and the WNBA’s Portland Fire.
For now, the focus remains on bridging the gap between the city’s financial commitments, the state’s funding deadline, and Dundon’s vision for the franchise’s future in Portland.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
