Seattle income tax may block NBA Sonics return

Seattle's potential return of an NBA team, the Sonics, is now uncertain due to the state's 9.9% income tax on incomes over $1 million, according to newstalkkit.com and ESPN sources.

At a recent NBA Board of Governors meeting, it was revealed that Seattle is no longer guaranteed a franchise, with concerns about the tax cited.

Experts say that Washington's income tax, described as noticeably regressive, could make it difficult to attract players, especially free agents, unlike California where a graduated tax has been in place since 1935.

Governor Ferguson, who signed the income tax into law, downplayed concerns by referencing NBA player Steph Curry's experience paying California taxes and made a remark about being at Climate Pledge Arena for opening night when the Sonics return.

The NBA is now considering other expansion options, with Las Vegas likely to receive a team first and a proposal from Mexico City also under positive consideration.

If Washington's income tax measure I-645 passes and the income tax is repealed, experts say it could improve the chances of the Sonics returning to Seattle.