Tom Dundon Denies Portland Trail Blazers Relocation
The owner refutes claims of moving the NBA team as negotiations for a major Moda Center renovation continue.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Basketball
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Portland Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon has denied rumors regarding potential franchise relocation. The team is currently engaged in active lease and renovation negotiations with city officials for the Moda Center.
Why it matters
Securing a new lease agreement is essential to access $586 million in public funding for stadium renovations. League officials have noted the current arena requires upgrades to remain viable for the long term.
The project includes $586 million in total approved funding for arena renovations. The franchise currently has four years remaining on its lease at the Moda Center.
The players
Tom Dundon
He is the owner of the Portland Trail Blazers franchise.
Adam Silver
He serves as the Commissioner of the NBA and oversees league arena standards.
The details
Tom Dundon met with local officials during a preseason game to discuss the future of the venue. NBA rules mandate a strict process for any team move, including a 120-day investigation committee and a majority owner vote.
Timeline
1970 marks the year the Trail Blazers first began playing in Portland.
1995 is when the team moved into the Moda Center.
December 31, 2026, is the deadline to reach a deal for state funding.
2030 is when the current bridge lease for the Moda Center concludes.
The Big Picture
The franchise management must navigate the formal NBA constitution relocation requirements to solidify the team's future in the region. This process underscores the league's structured framework for managing venue-related stability and geographic movement.
Failure to meet the December 2026 deadline could jeopardize the $365 million in state funds intended for arena improvements. The outcome of these lease negotiations will determine if the current facility receives necessary modernization through 2030.
The takeaway
The team's long-term residency in Portland hinges on the successful completion of the Moda Center renovation project. Stakeholders must now focus on meeting the upcoming legislative deadlines to ensure the arena remains a competitive venue for the league.
What happens next
The franchise and city officials must finalize a term sheet agreement by December 31, 2026, to secure the $365 million in state funding for the arena project.
Further reading
For more background on the team's facility plans, visit the Portland Basketball section.
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