Full Breakdown
Seattle NBA Expansion: New Bidder Teams Up with Tulalip Tribes for Marysville Arena
9/6/2026, 7:46:55 AM
Core Development
A second ownership group has entered the race for an NBA expansion franchise in Seattle. BlackSun Private Equity, a New York-based investment firm, submitted a bid in August and is collaborating with the Tulalip Tribes to locate a new arena and surrounding entertainment district on tribal-owned land in Marysville, Washington—approximately 35 miles north of downtown Seattle. The proposal would place the arena outside the city limits, raising questions about transportation and fan accessibility.
Background & Context
Seattle’s former NBA team, the SuperSonics, were sold and relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, leaving a long-standing demand for a return franchise. One Roof Sports and Entertainment, led by Samantha Holloway and already the majority owner of the NHL’s Seattle Kraken, is the first known bidder. The NBA is simultaneously evaluating expansion proposals for both Seattle and Las Vegas, with Commissioner Adam Silver indicating a decision on the Seattle team is expected by the end of the year.
Key Players
- Samantha Holloway – Leader of One Roof Sports and Entertainment, primary Seattle bidder.
- BlackSun Private Equity – New York investment firm submitting the second Seattle bid.
- Tulalip Tribes – Owners of the proposed Marysville site, partnering on arena development.
- Adam Silver – NBA Commissioner overseeing the expansion process.
Official Statements & Responses
Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed that the league hopes to announce the Seattle franchise decision by year-end. Both ownership groups have publicly affirmed their commitment to keeping a team within the Seattle metropolitan area, citing the city’s basketball heritage and market potential.
What’s Next
The NBA will continue reviewing the Seattle bids while the Las Vegas contenders face a more detailed submission deadline in mid-September. If the league does not receive bids meeting its target of at least $7 billion—especially for the Las Vegas market—the entire expansion process could be delayed. Seattle’s final franchise decision remains pending, with the league’s timeline pointing toward a late-year announcement.
