Sacramento Kings failed relocation attempts

For nearly a decade, the Sacramento Kings faced the constant possibility of leaving town. The Maloof family, who owned the team during that stretch, had reportedly lost a significant portion of their wealth and could no longer operate an NBA franchise. They explored moving the team to Anaheim, Virginia Beach, and Seattle.

In early 2011, NBA Commissioner David Stern confirmed that the Kings had discussed relocating to Anaheim, California. The organization had even filed trademarks for names like "Anaheim Royals." The Maloofs prepared to present their case to the NBA Board of Governors, expecting approval to be a formality. However, Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson surprised the league by announcing that billionaire Ron Burkle wanted to buy the team and keep it in Sacramento. Johnson also pledged $10 million from local businesses. This show of support, combined with fan enthusiasm, reportedly convinced Stern and the relocation committee to tell the Maloofs to withdraw their Anaheim plans.

A year later, in early 2012, the city, the NBA, and the Maloofs tentatively agreed to build a $387 million arena in downtown Sacramento’s rail yards. The city would contribute over $250 million upfront by leasing parking lots to a private company. The Maloofs would put up $75 million, plus proceeds from selling the old arena, and a 5% ticket surcharge would generate another $75 million. Arena operator AEG would add $60 million for operating rights. The city council approved the outline in March 2012, but the Maloofs backed out of the deal the following month.

Virginia Beach also tried to lure the Kings. Officials there were willing to build an 18,000-seat arena managed by Comcast Spectacor. However, the two sides could not finalize an agreement, and the talks ended.

The most serious threat came from Seattle. In January 2013, the NBA reported that the Maloofs were in discussions with a Seattle group led by Chris Hansen, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, and the Nordstrom family. Hansen had already purchased $6.8 million in parking spaces for a new arena. A deal was soon reached to sell the Maloofs’ majority stake for a valuation of $525 million, with the team expected to relocate and revive the SuperSonics name. The sale was contingent on NBA Board of Governors approval. Stern said he would allow Mayor Johnson to address the board before any decision.