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In 1992, the Suns committed to a 40-year lease at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, but the agreement included a provision for the team to opt out at 30 years if the building — one of the oldest in the NBA — is considered obsolete.
That could allow the Suns to leave downtown Phoenix in 2022 if there's no new agreement.
With a City Council vote on a $230 million renovation plan delayed, it has been revealed that Suns owner Robert Sarver has told some council members he might move the team to Seattle or Las Vegas.
If the Suns leave, Phoenix would have to take over operations and maintenance of the building, and would still have to invest in significant infrastructure repairs if it wants to attract concerts and other events, according to the city.
In a statement, Suns President and CEO Jason Rowley said the the team was aware of the request to delay the vote and will answer any questions the community has.
"We very much look forward to publicly discussing the many ways in which Talking Stick Resort Arena benefits downtown Phoenix and our community at large, and answering any questions the council and their constituents have about the arena and the proposed renovation," he said. "Our priority remains being in downtown Phoenix long-term, and we’re excited about the opportunity that lies ahead."
Fans and media members reacted to the report Sarver had threatened to move the team on Wednesday with many of them calling it a bluff from the owner:
The Arizona Republic is part of the USA TODAY Network.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver threatens to move team to Seattle or Las Vegas
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