NBA Commissioner Visits Portland Amid Renovation Plans
In a significant development for Portland basketball fans, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver attended a crucial game between the Trail Blazers and the Utah Jazz, marking his presence shortly after the Oregon Legislature sanctioned funding for the renovation of the aging Moda Center. Last week, state lawmakers passed a bill that paves the way for joint ownership of the arena between the state and the city, which will facilitate $365 million in renovations for the three-decade-old facility.
Legislative Support and Team Ownership
This legislative move comes against the backdrop of the Portland Trail Blazers being sold by the estate of the late Paul Allen to a consortium led by Tom Dundon, owner of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes. The approval of the bill has been perceived as a reassuring signal that the new ownership will likely keep the team in Portland, addressing widespread fears of a potential relocation.
Discussions on Future Plans
During his time in Portland, Silver engaged in discussions with local leaders regarding forthcoming plans. He emphasized that the Moda Center is not solely home to the Blazers; it is also set to host the newly introduced Portland Fire, a team joining the WNBA this season.
“I’ve had productive discussions with both the governor and the mayor, and it’s encouraging to see bipartisan support for this project,” Silver remarked. “It’s crucial to recognize that arenas like the Moda Center serve multiple purposes, from hosting conventions and trade fairs to concerts and graduations. They are integral to the fabric of the community.”
Modernization for Future Events
He further elaborated on the necessity of modernizing the arena, stating,
“To attract major events like the NBA All-Star Game or future NCAA tournaments, we must ensure the Moda Center is up to date. It is arguably the oldest facility in the league, with few others having gone through substantial renovations. This renovation must occur not only for the teams but for the economic vitality of Portland, as the city has missed out on significant events due to the state of the facility. However, I sense a strong communal commitment to make this happen.”
Project Budget and Future Approval
The overall renovation project’s budget is estimated at around $600 million, indicative of the extensive work needed. Meanwhile, the sale to Dundon is expected to receive formal approval by the NBA Board of Governors later this month. Silver’s comments were featured in an interview included in the Trail Blazers’ media coverage, although he did not address reporters directly during the game.
