Perhaps the Sacramento Kings' seemingly inevitable move to Seattle isn't inevitable after all? A group led by Seattle businessmen Chris Hansen and Steve Ballmer has looked likely to complete a purchase of the Kings from the Maloof family, but a late proposal from local bidders was received by the NBA on Friday.
Kings sale: NBA recieves proposal from Sacramento group
Local businessmen Ron Burkle and Mark Mastrov are doing their best to keep the Sacramento Kings from moving to Seattle.
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Mark Mastrov and Ron Burkle’s bid was announced earlier in the week by Sacramento mayor Kevin Johnson, but the “competitive offer,” as described by Johnson, was not received until Friday. Johnson tweeted out the news, obviously excited about the prospect of the NBA team remaining in his city.
The proposal is IN!! A proud day for Sacramento!! #playingtowin
— Kevin Johnson (@KJ_MayorJohnson) March 1, 2013
Burkle, a billionaire with multiple business interests, and Mastrov, the founder of 24 Hour Fitness, have been working on a bid for the team since January. Johnson has been working to line up sponsors and local investors for the team, a new arena, and a redeveloped business district around the proposed new arena that he hopes will convince the NBA that the Kings should stay where they are.
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