In a move that could signal a reshaping of the NBA landscape, the estate of the late Paul Allen has announced it is officially starting the process of selling the Portland Trail Blazers. The announcement comes nearly six years after Allen’s passing in 2018, and is in line with his long-term vision for his estate and legacy.
Fulfilling Allen’s Vision for Philanthropy
Paul Allen, the billionaire co-founder of Microsoft, was not only a pioneer in tech but also a passionate sports owner and philanthropist. According to a statement from the Trail Blazers, the decision to sell is “consistent with Allen’s directive to eventually sell his sports holdings and direct all estate proceeds to philanthropy.”
Allen purchased the Trail Blazers in 1988, turning them into a staple of Portland’s identity and a consistent presence in the NBA. His influence on the franchise extended far beyond the court, with a deep commitment to community initiatives and player development.
What’s NOT For Sale?
While the Trail Blazers are going on the market, not all of Allen’s sports investments are following suit. The estate clarified that:
- The Seattle Seahawks, which Allen bought in 1997, will not be sold as part of this announcement.
- The estate’s 25% ownership stake in the Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) will also remain intact.
“This news does not affect the Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise or the estate’s 25% interest in the Seattle Sounders MLS (franchise), and neither is for sale,” the estate stated.
NBA Expansion on the Horizon?
Interestingly, this development comes amid increased speculation about NBA expansion. League Commissioner Adam Silver recently dropped more hints that expansion talks are picking up steam. The timing of the Trail Blazers sale may not be coincidental—new ownership could bring a fresh perspective and potentially play a role in shaping the league’s next era.
With markets like Seattle and Las Vegas frequently mentioned as potential expansion cities, all eyes are now on how the NBA might evolve in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
The sale of the Trail Blazers marks the beginning of a new chapter—not just for the franchise, but potentially for the league itself. As Paul Allen’s estate continues to carry out his philanthropic legacy, the NBA community waits to see who will step in as the next steward of one of its most storied teams.
Stay tuned for more updates as the sale process unfolds and expansion discussions gain momentum.