Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver has responded to reports claiming he threatened to move the franchise to Seattle or Las Vegas if the city votes against spending $150 million on renovating Talking Stick Resort Arena.
"First and foremost, the Phoenix Suns aren't leaving Phoenix," Sarver said in a video to fans. "I'm 100 percent committed and have been for the last four years to find a solution to keep them in downtown Phoenix where they belong.
"I'm a strong proponent, as evidenced by the term sheet that I signed last week, that we should renovate the Talking Stick Resort Arena and once again restore it to a world-class facility. In addition, it is important for the Phoenix Suns to build a first-class practice facility, so the players of the Suns and the Phoenix Mercury can continue to develop.
"I am 100 percent all-in in keeping this team right here where we stand and I want to make sure that message comes across crystal clear to every one of you."
A message from Managing Partner, Robert Sarver: pic.twitter.com/f2YLC0woYG
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 13, 2018
It's clear that the Sarver is not on the same page as the city, referencing his readiness to renovate 26-year-old arena.
Sarver and the Suns have proposed paying upwards of $80 million toward renovations, maintenance, and a new practice facility.
