The Trail Blazers' future in Portland is in jeopardy, and the stakes couldn't be higher. A city's identity and economy are on the line, and the outcome will be a test of leadership and collective action.
Bill Oram's concern is palpable as he highlights the ongoing disputes between Multnomah County and the Trail Blazers organization, as well as internal conflicts within Portland's leadership over clean energy funding. The situation is further complicated by the incoming owner, Tom Dundon, who seems to be leveraging the team's potential relocation to his advantage. But here's where it gets controversial: is Dundon the villain, or just a savvy businessman?
The author argues that the NBA's history of franchise relocations, like the Seattle SuperSonics' move to Oklahoma City, should serve as a warning. Portland's leaders must unite and take decisive action to keep the Trail Blazers, or risk losing them to another city. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about sports. The team's departure could have a devastating impact on the local economy and the city's spirit, akin to Pittsburgh without its steel industry or Orlando without Disney.
Oram challenges the reader's perception of Portland as a major league city, questioning whether it has prioritized and invested in sports like other comparable cities. He urges leaders to recognize the urgency and take bold steps, despite the challenges posed by local politics and economic factors. The real work, he emphasizes, is happening beneath the surface, and it's far from smooth sailing.
The article also delves into the complex dynamics between Dundon, local governments, and the NBA. It raises the question: why should a billionaire owner rely on public funding for his arena? The answer lies in the competition among cities to attract and retain sports franchises. A powerful owner can play one city against another, leveraging the threat of relocation to secure favorable deals.
Oram's prediction may be dire, but he backs it up with historical context and a deep understanding of the sports business. He acknowledges his own fallibility, having been wrong in previous predictions, but stands firm on this issue. The Trail Blazers' fate hangs in the balance, and the author's hope is that this column will age like milk, proven wrong by future events.
In the end, the article is a call to action, urging leaders and citizens alike to engage in honest discussions and bold decisions. It invites readers to consider the broader implications of losing a beloved sports team and the potential consequences for the city's identity and prosperity. Are Portland's leaders up to the task? Will they prioritize the Trail Blazers' future in the city? The answers may shape Portland's destiny.
