Exclusive: Inside the NBA owners’ meeting
Published 10:31 pm Thursday, April 17, 2008
It’s a big day in the Sonics saga. NBA owners get together to consider the team’s proposed move to Oklahoma City. We’ve obtained an advance transcript of today’s meeting:
Commissioner David Stern: “First, I’d like to thank former Sonics owner Howard Schultz for bringing us here today. Let’s all raise a Starbucks latte wrapped in $100 bills to Howard. Now, to the business at hand. Anyone wish to speak before we vote?” (Laughs menacingly.)
Sonics owner Clayton Bennett: “Thank you, Mr. Stern. You’re just the most wonderful person I have ever met. Did I ever mention how your eyes sparkle in the fluorescent lights?”
Stern: “Thanks, Clay. I got your drawings. Now, all in favor of turning our backs on 41 years of history, thousands of fans and a major city to move the Sonics to the tornado capital of America, say, ‘highway robbery.’ “
30 voices: “Highway robbery.”
Meanwhile, in a court filing, Bennett accused Seattle officials of acting dishonestly and hiding their true intent from the public.
If Bennett needs an expert witness on dishonesty when this thing goes to trial, he could always put himself on the stand.
