But through a cumulative 111 seasons and 37 playoff appearances, Seattle boasts only one champion: the 1979 Sonics of Gus Williams, Jack Sikma and Dennis Johnson.

FORBES: Magazine Article

"I'm proud of how Sonics fans have rallied together to help Seattle get a team, " McGinn said in a statement.

NPR: NBA Committee Recommends Rejecting Kings Move

In 2001 the Sonics were bought by former Starbucks CEO and long-time Seattle resident Howard Schultz.

FORBES: E Pluribus Sounders (Part 2): Focusing on Fans While Building Towards an MLS Franchise

The NBA has no plans to expand, so Seattle will have to steal an NBA team from another city after being heartbroken by the Sonics departure.

FORBES: Which NBA Team Is Headed For Seattle With New Arena Ready To Go?