Gary Payton II of the Golden State Warriors expressed interest in joining a future NBA expansion team in Seattle if the league reestablishes a franchise in the city. With his father, Gary Payton, having made a Hall of Fame career with the former Seattle SuperSonics, the possibility holds special significance for him.
Family Legacy Fuels Desire to Play in Seattle
Payton II jokingly mentioned he might request a trade from the Warriors if a Seattle team emerges while he is still active in the league.
“Respectfully. I love it here so much. But if we do (have a Seattle team) when I’m still here, I definitely want to go back and play there,”
he told Nick Friedell of The Athletic.
Support for Seattle Franchise Beyond Personal Interest
Beyond his own career plans, Payton II strongly advocates for the NBA’s return to Seattle, believing it would benefit both the local community and basketball as a whole. He described the idea of a new franchise as
“like a dream come true all over again.”
Impact on Basketball Culture and Local Community
He emphasized how a Seattle team would allow fans to watch games in person and enrich the city’s basketball culture. Payton II shared,
“But other than that, it’s for the basketball culture. Even if I do play for them or not, it will be good for the city of Seattle and good for the NBA.”
Looking Ahead to Seattle’s NBA Future
Gary Payton II’s openness to joining an expanded Seattle franchise reflects both his family’s connection and his hope for the city’s basketball renaissance. The potential return of the SuperSonics could energize fans and add new vitality to the league, making his comments a meaningful hint of what might come.
