The Straight Hoop

With the only realistic way of the NBA returning to Seattle being expansion, I have been thinking about how an organization can succeed as an expansion franchise. As we can see with the past expansion teams, success is not guaranteed. There are a number of different factors that play into the future of any franchise; solid ownership and drafting well are both essentials for sustained success. With expansion however, there are some extra potholes fledgling franchises need to avoid. Without further adieu, here is a couple of moves new franchises should make to not be the new Bobcats of the league. Solid ownership is a must for any franchise, especially the new ones. Success starts at the very top of organizations and has a way of making its way through to the lower levels, like a legit "trickle down" theory. A good ownership group provides a general vision for the organization as a whole and will make the necessary moves to put the franchise in a successful position. A good o...

First and foremost, I would like to congratulate Sacramento. They did what we couldn't do up here, which makes sense. While the common theme of relocation is present in this tale of two teams, the details of them are a smidge different. Either way, here we are again, exactly where we were. No team and no idea if and when another one is coming. It would be nice to hope for one, but I feel it would only end in a manner similar to this. When I had heard a couple of billionaires had planes to bring back the Sonics, I approached it with cautious optimism. I didn't want to get to invested in this whole situation, knowing it could end the way it did.  And yet here I am; crestfallen is a good way to put my feelings right now. The more I heard about prospective arena deals and team valuations, the more excited I got. The more I believed that having the Sonics back in town was a possibility. The city of Seattle has Chris Hansen to thank for that. I expect an open let...