We are nearing the beginning of the second half of the 2025-26 season. Meaning to say, the season is nearing its conclusion. While everyone is already looking forward to the 2026 NBA Playoffs, some are intrigued by what could be in store for next season.
There have been rumors that the league may introduce expansion teams next year. While nothing has been made official yet, reports suggest that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver should announce by the end of the season. Most likely, after the playoffs. Having that in mind, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony weighed in on the potential return of the Seattle SuperSonics.
Carmelo Anthony Wants To See the Seattle SuperSonics Come Back
The SuperSonics were an NBA franchise based in Seattle. The franchise played in the league from 1967 to 2008. Seattle then relocated to Oklahoma City and rebranded itself as the Thunder.
Since then, the Oklahoma City Thunder have taken over the Sonics’ place in the NBA. It’s a shame that Seattle was booted from the league, especially after producing notable players like Kevin Durant and Ray Allen.
Apparently, basketball legend Anthony would like to see the SuperSonics make a comeback if NBA Commissioner Silver decides to proceed with the league expansion next season.
In a recent episode of Melo’s podcast, “7PM in Brooklyn”, the legend expressed his desire to see Seattle return as one of the expansion teams next season. He also explained how other players during his time had a lot of love for the team.
Anthony also specified that he would like to see the SuperSonics maintain their previous identity and rock the same colors and similar jersey designs if they were to return.
“It’s smart to do Seattle,” Anthony said. “Like Seattle has history. It’s like legacy. It’s tradition. For that s**t to be cut off like that, and their identity goes directly to Oklahoma City. Seattle has a rich history when it comes to what it contributed to the NBA.”
“Seattle got its own vibe,” Anthony continued. “When sports was poppin’, when basketball was poppin’ out the NBA, it was nice to go travel to Seattle. Like it was good energy out there.”
“You gotta keep all of (Seattle SuperSonics identity),” Anthony added. “You can’t come with a new color in Seattle. Seattle needs to be back. Players want Seattle back.”
Reminder: It’s smart to do Seattle đź’šđź’›pic.twitter.com/rQliAXwsvn
— Seattle Supersonics (@SeattleSonics) February 17, 2026
As of this writing, Silver is reportedly leaning towards bringing back the SuperSonics franchise.
The other expected expansion team would be based in Las Vegas. Players like LeBron James and legends like Shaquille O’Neal have previously expressed interest in owning a franchise based in Vegas. With that in mind, bringing Las Vegas to the NBA seems sensible.
