getty images/otto greule jr. via seattlepi.com
No. There are still bureaucratic approvals to be gotten.
But we’re closer than we ever were!
On a morning dominated by national political pomp n’ circumstance, when the local TV stations were locked into network coverage (KIRO-TV couldn’t get to it until 1:35 p.m.), when only sports-talk radio, web sites, and “social media” could immediately spread the word, Chris Hansen issued an announcement:
We are happy to announce that we have entered into a binding agreement with the Maloofs to purchase a controlling interest in the Sacramento Kings NBA franchise. The sale is obviously subject to approval by the NBA Board of Governors, and we look forward to working with the League in the coming months to consummate the transaction.
While we are not at liberty to discuss the terms of the transaction or our plans for the franchise given the confidential nature of the agreement and NBA regulations regarding public comments during a pending transaction, we would just like to extend our sincerest compliments and gratitude toward the Maloof family. Our negotiations with the family were handled with the utmost honor and professionalism and we hope to continue their legacy and be great stewards of this NBA franchise in the coming years and decades.
The sale, and the move, still have to be approved by the league’s Board of Governors (the other team owners). A Seattle Times online story says that could happen in mid-April and would likely “win overwhelming approval.”
NBCSports.com blogger Aaron Bruski says Sacramento interests will have six weeks to make a firm counter-offer; but Bruski believes they haven’t much of a chance.
Meanwhile, the Times‘ Steve Kelley asks,
What’s the rule on number of exclamation points allowed in a column?
Why is the Hallelujah Chorus playing in my head?
Our ol’ pal Goldy says the potential move is a “big win” for Mayor Mike McGinn.
And KJR-AM’s site bears the premature, but understandable, banner GOT ‘EM BACK!