NBA Commissioner Adam Silver travels to Portland following the approval of funding for arena upgrades.
PORTLAND, Ore — NBA commissioner Adam Silver was present at the Portland Trail Blazers’ matchup against the Utah Jazz on Friday evening after the Oregon Legislature sanctioned funding for the renovation of the Moda Center.
Last week, state legislators approved a measure that grants the state joint ownership of the Moda Center alongside the city and establishes a framework to secure $365 million for the refurbishment of the three-decade-old facility.
This legislative initiative coincides with the sale of the Blazers by the estate of Paul Allen to a consortium led by Tom Dundon, owner of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes. It alleviated concerns that the new ownership might relocate the team from Portland.
While in Portland, Silver engaged with local officials regarding the forthcoming steps. He emphasized that the Moda Center serves not only as the home for the Blazers but will also host the newly established Portland Fire in the WNBA.
“I’ve had productive discussions with the governor and the mayor, and it has been a bipartisan effort,” Silver stated. “I believe everyone in this community understands that, in addition to the Trail Blazers and the Fire — and we must not overlook the Fire, which is set to begin this season — these venues are multipurpose facilities, whether for conventions, trade shows, concerts, graduations, or other events. They are integral to the vitality of communities. Thus, it is not solely for the Trail Blazers and the Fire. A state-of-the-art arena is essential here.”
Silver shared these remarks in an interview released by the Blazers. He did not address reporters during the game.
The Blazers have asserted that the arena requires renovations to draw major events, such as the NBA All-Star Game and upcoming NCAA Tournament games. The total estimated cost for the project is $600 million.
“A state-of-the-art arena is necessary here. The Moda Center has likely become the oldest venue in the league. While there may be one or two older buildings, they have already undergone significant renovations,” Silver remarked. “It is clear that this work is essential, not only for the local basketball teams but also for all those events, and I know that, for the economy of Portland, you have missed out on significant events due to the arena not being updated for a long time. This work is imperative. However, it appears that the enthusiasm is present.”
The estate of Allen has already consented to the terms of the sale to Dundon. The NBA Board of Governors is anticipated to approve the sale later this month.
