PORTLAND, Ore. – A newly formed community coalition is urging state and local leaders to take bold action to keep the Portland Trail Blazers in the city as the franchise approaches an expected sale, possibly by the end of the year.
The group, which describes itself as a team of residents united by their love for the Blazers and the belief that the team is vital to the region’s future, launched a petition titled “Rip City Forever” this week. In an open letter to Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, the group called on leaders to commit to keeping the Blazers in Portland and to plan for new investment in sports infrastructure.
“Leadership begins with clear-eyed recognition that Portland and Oregon will need to compete with other cities who are likely already plotting to woo the next Blazers owner to their city,” the petition states. Citing cities such as Seattle, Las Vegas and Kansas City as potential suitors, the group warns that the Trail Blazers could become the latest NBA franchise to relocate, following examples like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies.
While acknowledging the team’s deep emotional and economic ties to Portland, the petition argues that passion alone is no longer enough. “In today’s NBA, passionate fans, an outdated arena and nostalgia are not enough for a successful franchise,” the group writes, pointing to new mixed-use sports districts in other cities as the model for long-term viability.
The coalition is advocating for either a major renovation of the Moda Center and surrounding Rose Quarter, or the construction of a new arena and entertainment district in Portland’s urban core. Potential sites mentioned include downtown and the Lloyd Center area, with the effort framed as part of a broader strategy to revitalize the city and support initiatives like the Albina Vision Trust.
“There is no bigger stage or brighter spotlight than the NBA,” the letter says, urging leaders to move quickly and decisively to secure the Blazers’ future. “Now is the time to dream big and act big.”
Support for the effort has already come from U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, who recently sent a letter to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressing concern over the franchise’s future, as well as from the Oregon Legislature, which passed a resolution highlighting the team’s importance to the state.
The Trail Blazers have been based in Portland since joining the NBA as an expansion team in 1970. They won their lone championship in 1977 and remain a central part of the state’s sports identity.
For more information or to sign the petition, visit RipCityForever.org.
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