Published by Truth + Media
Iconic Sonics celebrates the history of the great Seattle SuperSonics while also covering the NBA's potential expansion, and the return of the team to Seattle.
Listen on Apple Podcasts42 min
Two of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting are together on Iconic Sonics. Kenny Mayne and Linda Cohn join Danny Ball for one of the funniest episodes we've ever recorded, sharing unforgettable stories from their journeys from Seattle to SportsCenter. From Linda's first live TV shot at a Seattle SuperSonics game to Kenny's signature humor, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories. The conversation covers the magic of the SuperSonics, why Climate Pledge Arena is one of the NBA's premier venues, their favorite Sonics of all time, classic SportsCenter moments, what it would mean to bring the Sonics back to Seattle, and an entertaining fantasy draft where they build the ultimate 3-on-3 basketball team using ESPN, NBA, and WNBA personalities. If you love Seattle sports, SportsCenter memories, or simply want to hear Kenny Mayne keep everyone laughing, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Be sure to check out Hoops on the Pier presented by Rise Above from July 31st to Aug. 2nd! Hosted by Danny Ball (@itsdannyball) Edited by @pnw_rollers Produced by Brett Goldberg Guests: Linda Cohn & Kenny Mayne Follow Iconic Sonics: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iconic_sonics
1 hr 0 min
Former Seahawk, CBS host, lifelong Sonics fan and Seattle native Nate Burleson joins Iconic Sonics to relive some incredible Seattle sports memories. Danny Ball is joined by special guest co-host West Coast Willie, whose deep knowledge of Seattle sports helps bring out some unbelievable stories from Nate. Nate shares stories about growing up as a diehard Sonics fan, meeting Xavier McDaniel and Dale Ellis as a kid, buying season tickets after signing with the Seahawks, watching Kevin Durant's rookie season from just a few rows off the court, and why Gary Payton remains one of his all-time favorite athletes. He also takes us behind the scenes of the Seahawks with stories about Mike Holmgren, Dion Branch, Randy Moss, Mike Tice, Walter Jones, Brett Favre, and the motivation that fueled one of the best seasons of his NFL career. Plus: Why LeBron James is his GOAT The 1996 NBA Finals Seattle's underrated sports culture His dream of becoming part of the Sonics ownership group Why he believes Seattle never gets the respect it deserves Presented by Everett 3 on 3.
46 min
Presented by Everett 3 on 3 Seattle basketball reporter Percy Allen joins the Iconic Sonics Podcast for a conversation that spans the past, present and future of hoops in the Pacific Northwest. We look back at the 2008 NBA Draft, the final draft in SuperSonics history, and revisit the selection of Russell Westbrook with the fourth overall pick. Percy also shares his perspective on the Sonics leaving Seattle 18 years ago, what that moment was like to cover and how the city has continued to rally around basketball ever since. We also dive into the latest around the Seattle Storm, the local basketball scene and where Seattle hoops stands today. This episode is presented by Everett 3 on 3, one of the Northwest's premier basketball tournaments. Grab your friends, build your squad and sign up to compete! Follow us on social: Instagram: @iconic_sonics X: @iconic_sonics TikTok: @iconic_sonics
42 min
On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with longtime NBA executive, agent, and Summer League pioneer Warren LeGarie for an unforgettable conversation packed with Seattle basketball history. Before the interview, Danny reacts to Adam Silver's comments on expansion before the start of the NBA Finals and discusses why Melinda French Gates joining One Roof Sports & Entertainment could be a major step toward NBA expansion returning to Seattle. Then Warren shares stories from across his legendary career, including how George Karl unexpectedly became head coach of the Seattle SuperSonics, why Shawn Kemp lived with him before entering the NBA, the culture that made Seattle one of the league's favorite cities, and how NBA Summer League grew into one of basketball's biggest annual events. Plus, Warren weighs in on NBA expansion, Las Vegas vs. Seattle, what makes a great owner, and why the Sonics still belong in the NBA. Follow us on social: X: https://x.com/Iconic_sonics IG: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/
41 min
Danny Ball is joined by Alex and Ciara from Flagrant Magazine for one of the most fun episodes of Iconic Sonics yet. Before getting into WNBA predictions and storylines, Danny highlights a cool Seattle basketball connection: both teams in the NBA Finals feature former Seattle SuperSonics players on their coaching staffs, proving the Sonics legacy continues to show up throughout the league. The crew previews the WNBA season with early predictions and hot takes, debates MVP and Rookie of the Year races, talks Paige Bueckers, expansion teams, tunnel fits, and the latest from Flagrant Magazine. Expect hoops takes, social media nonsense, WNBA discourse and plenty of moments that completely go off the rails. Subscribe to Flagrant Mag: https://www.flagrantmag.com/ Subscribe to Iconic Sonics for more Sonics content, Seattle basketball stories and interviews. Follow us on social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ X: https://x.com/Iconic_sonics
50 min
On this episode of Iconic Sonics , Danny Ball is joined by Jason Quick and Seattle NBA fan leader Cedric Walker for a powerful conversation about ownership, history, and the ongoing fight to bring basketball back to Seattle. The episode dives into the controversial comparison between Tom Dundon and Clay Bennett, unpacking what it means for fans when ownership decisions clash with community loyalty and an update on the current NBA playoffs. Jason Quick brings a seasoned journalist's perspective and has idea about Dame Lillard's return. Then Cedric Walker speaks to the passion and mission of Seattle NBA Fans. This is more than just a conversation about the past. It is about accountability, the future of the NBA, and why Seattle continues to push for the return of the Sonics. Be sure to like, comment and subscribe! Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates on NBA expansion, the Sonics return and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics
38 min
On this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny Ball sits down with former Seattle SuperSonics guard Damien Wilkins for a deep dive into one of the most emotional eras in Seattle basketball history and what could come next. Damien reflects on his time in Seattle, including unforgettable moments in the green and gold, playing alongside a young Kevin Durant, and what made the Sonics culture so special. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his career, including his 41-point performance and life as an NBA player in the city. The conversation also turns to the future. With NBA expansion rumors heating up, Damien gives his perspective on Seattle's chances of landing a team, how he would build a roster, and why the city is more than ready for the league's return. Plus, insight into today's NBA, player development, and what makes the modern game so different from the Sonics era. Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics
32 min
In this episode of Iconic Sonics, Danny sits down with former Sonics GM Bob Whitsitt for a rare, in-depth conversation about one of the most important eras in Seattle basketball history. Bob breaks down the news around expansion, how to an expansion team can contdend for a title very quickly and more. He also details building one of the first NBA practice facilities while he was in Seattle, building competitive teams and the realities of running an NBA franchise. Bob shares firsthand insight into the decisions, challenges, and moments that shaped the Sonics. This episode also comes at a pivotal time, with the NBA expected to vote on expansion just days after this recording. As Seattle moves closer to potentially getting a team again, understanding the past has never been more important. Danny also notes that earlier this week, Brad Townsend joined the show ahead of All-Star Weekend with breaking news on expansion momentum, making this moment feel bigger than ever for Sonics fans. 0:00 – Intro + Why This Is a Huge Moment for Sonics Fans 0:30 – Upcoming NBA Expansion Vote (March 24–25) 1:00 – Introducing Bob Whitsitt (Former Sonics GM) 2:30 – Building the Sonics: Front Office Perspective 6:00 – What It Was Like Running an NBA Team 10:00 – Key Decisions That Shaped the Franchise 14:00 – The Business Side of Basketball 18:00 – Challenges the Sonics Faced in Seattle 22:00 – Looking Back on the Sonics Era 26:00 – Lessons From the NBA Front Office 30:00 – What Seattle Needs for an NBA Return 34:00 – Final Thoughts + Legacy of the Sonics If you care about the return of the Sonics, this is essential listening because the future of Seattle basketball starts with understanding its past, present and future. Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics
14 min
The Seattle SuperSonics are closer than ever to returning—and this episode breaks down exactly why. Danny Ball is joined by NBA insider Brad Townsend for a deep dive into the league's latest expansion momentum, including the expected Board of Governors vote that could officially move Seattle and Las Vegas into the next phase. With a potential 2028–29 debut on the table and franchise valuations reportedly reaching $7–10 billion, this is no longer just speculation—it's becoming reality. What makes this even more compelling: Brad previously joined the show last month with early breaking news ahead of All-Star Weekend, hinting that expansion talks were heating up. Now, just weeks later, those predictions are lining up with real movement from the league. In this episode, they cover: - What the upcoming NBA expansion vote actually means - Why owners are confident expansion will be "additive" to the league - The step-by-step process from vote → bidding → team launch - Why Seattle and Las Vegas have separated from other cities - Arena readiness in Seattle vs. Vegas timelines - The $10 BILLION price tag and who could actually buy these teams - Early storylines around players, including Kevin Durant and more - How this all fits into the NBA's bigger picture heading into the Finals If you've been waiting for real Sonics news—not rumors, not hope, but actual progress—this is the episode you've been waiting for. Follow Iconic Sonics for more updates: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconics_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconics_sonics 🎙️ Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment: Would you rather see KD finish his career in Seattle or bring back a new era of Sonics stars?
46 min
This week on the podcast, Danny sits down with Beth Knox , President and CEO of the Seattle Sports Commission , to talk about why this is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in Seattle sports history. From major events coming to the city to the continued growth of Seattle as a global sports destination, Beth shares what's ahead and why the momentum around Seattle sports is real. Later in the episode, artist and lifelong basketball fan Django Degree joins the show for a conversation about National Basketball Association culture, the deep nostalgia surrounding the Seattle SuperSonics , and why the Sonics still hold such a powerful place in the city's identity. It's an episode about Seattle's past, present, and future in sports — and why the city still feels ready for its next big chapter.
36 min
Seattle this may be the clearest NBA expansion signal yet. Veteran NBA reporter Brad Townsend joins host Danny Ball and says the financial groundwork is already circulating among owners… with a vote this summer but other owners wanting to vote sooner, expansion could be closer than fans think. Brad Townsend of The Dallas Morning News joins Iconic Sonics to break down what he's hearing about NBA expansion, including a possible vote timeline, why Seattle and Las Vegas are the frontrunners, and why the process may be further along than most realize. Follow the show: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ X: https://x.com/iconic_sonics Threads: https://www.threads.net/@iconic_sonics 0:00 – NBA Expansion Update: What We're Hearing 2:15 – Why Seattle's Expansion Case Feels Strong 6:42 – The NBA's Market Study Explained 10:18 – Expansion Fees & Owner Financial Discussions 14:07 – When Could the NBA Vote on Expansion? 18:55 – Why Relocation Is Off the Table 22:31 – Seattle vs Las Vegas: Who Has the Edge? 27:12 – Western Conference Realignment & Minnesota East? 31:44 – The New NBA TV Deal & Expansion Timing 36:20 – Mark Cuban's Role After the Sale 41:08 – Luka Fallout & The Mavericks' Future 46:50 – Tanking, Draft Depth & League Parity 52:33 – ABA Stories & George Gervin 58:10 – Final Seattle Expansion Takeaways
Seattle doesn't experience big moments the way other cities do. Here, history is always in the room. Host Danny Ball sits down with Seattle sports legend Mike Gastineau for a wide-ranging conversation on why this Seahawks Super Bowl run feels bigger than just football and why longtime Seattle fans instantly recognize the energy behind this team. From the echoes of the SuperSonics era to the heartbreaks and near-misses that shaped Seattle's sports identity, Danny and Gas connect the past to the present. They break down how this Seahawks team, led by head coach Mike Macdonald and quarterback Sam Darnold, has reignited championship belief across the city and why this Super Bowl moment feels different from past runs. The conversation stretches beyond the Xs and Os of the Super Bowl, touching on legacy, culture, and the emotional weight Seattle fans carry into moments like this. From the 95 Mariners to the Sonics' golden years, this Seahawks run fits into a much longer story, one where belief, resilience, and timing collide at the biggest stage in sports. This isn't just about a football game. It's about what happens when the Seattle Seahawks don't just win, but tap into shared memory, city pride, and the unmistakable feeling that Seattle knows this moment because it's lived it before.
46 min
The Seattle SuperSonics conversation just shifted following the commissioner's announcement ahead of the NBA Cup Finals. Danny Ball, Tim Booth, and Chris Daniels break down why this time feels different. On this episode of Iconic Sonics , we're joined by Tim Booth (The Seattle Times) and Chris Daniels (KOMO News) to unpack Adam Silver's latest comments on NBA expansion, what's changed since Las Vegas Summer League, and why 2026 has suddenly become a real inflection point for Seattle . We dive into: Adam Silver's evolving language around expansion Why Seattle and Vegas are now clearly the front-runners What NBA owners actually care about behind closed doors Media rights, arena politics, and ownership questions Realistic timelines for when the Sonics could return Is this real momentum — or another false start? Chris and Tim bring reporting, context, and perspective you won't get anywhere else. Follow us on Instagram: @iconic_sonics Huge thanks to Tim Booth (The Seattle Times) and Chris Daniels (KOMO News) for joining the show. Shoutout to our partners: The Hall Group Simply Seattle Epic Seats Swinomish Casino & Lodge Host: Danny Ball Executive Producer: Brett Goldberg
33 min
Jason Quick discusses the legacy of Spencer Heywood, his impact on the NBA, and his relationship with the late Lenny Wilkens. Danny Ball also asks him about the ongoing developments in the current NBA season, including the Portland Trail Blazers' performance and the gambling scandal surrounding Chauncey Billups. Follow us on Instagram for more Sonics content! You can read Jason's article about Spencer Haywood HERE . Host: Danny Ball Guest: Jason Quick Executive Producer: Brett Goldberg
38 min
Coby Karl shares his unique experiences growing up in the basketball world as the son of George Karl, former Sonics coach. He reflects on his time in Seattle, the relationships he built with players and coaches, and the lessons he learned that shaped his own coaching philosophy. Coby discusses the evolution of basketball, particularly the WNBA, and emphasizes the importance of creating environments where players can thrive. He also shares his thoughts on the legacy of the Sonics and the potential for their return to Seattle.
26 min
Danny Ball interviews the father-son duo Will Conroy Sr. and Will Conroy Jr., exploring their deep connections to basketball, particularly within Seattle. They discuss the cultural impact of the Sonics, their personal basketball journeys, and the evolving landscape of youth basketball, including the influence of NIL and AAU. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in Seattle basketball, memorable experiences at the Crawsover, and reflections on family dynamics in sports, particularly in light of LeBron and Bronny James. The episode concludes with insights into their future aspirations in basketball and hope for the SuperSonics return.
1 hr 2 min
Danny Ball speaks with Alex and Ashtyn from Flagrant Mag about the origins of their magazine, their upcoming issue, and the cultural commentary surrounding women's basketball. They discuss the importance of covering both men's and women's basketball, the naming conventions of their brand, and the dynamics of player relationships in the WNBA. They also talk about the concept of 'Girl Shams' for breaking news in The W. They delve into their PNW connections as Oregon State alumni and express excitement for the return of the Portland Fire WNBA team. The discussion shifts to the future of the WNBA, coaching aspirations, and the potential for NBA expansion and relocation. They also share their thoughts on viewing experiences for WNBA games and promote upcoming projects from Flagrant Magazine. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ Support Flagrant here: https://www.flagrantmag.com/
48 min
Danny Ball is joined by Kevin Calabro, the iconic voice of the Seattle Sonics and current play-by-play announcer for the Portland Trail Blazers, shares his journey through the world of sports broadcasting. He reflects on his influences, memorable calls, and the evolution of basketball, particularly the rise of the three-point shot. Calabro discusses the future of the Trail Blazers under new ownership, the legacy of the Sonics, and the potential for NBA basketball to return to Seattle. He also addresses the changing landscape of NBA media and expresses hope for the future of basketball in the region. This episode is presented by Warrior Injury Law and Epic Seats.
35 min
First, Danny quickly covers the sale of the Trail Blazers as well as recaps an already super busy Seattle Summer full of hoops. Then he's joined by Jason Quick, a senior writer at The Athletic, who shares his extensive experience covering the NBA, particularly in Portland. He reflects on his journey from covering the Blazers for over 25 years to focusing on human interest stories in sports. The discussion delves into the historical rivalry between the Blazers and the Seattle Sonics, the impact of the Sonics' departure from Seattle, and concerns about team relocation in the NBA. Quick also shares insights on the current state and future of the Blazers, including their recent offseason moves and the excitement surrounding the return of Damian Lillard. Additionally, he discusses upcoming human interest stories he is working on and shares nostalgic anecdotes from the Sonics era. Follow us on IG for more: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/
43 min
Danny starts with his notes from Vegas and his takeaways from Adam Silver's annoucnemet that the NBA is exploring expansion. Who he talked to, what he heard and what to expect. Next, he interviews Nick Lagios shares his journey in international basketball, focusing on his experiences in Mexico City as a general manager and his insights into the growth of basketball in the region. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of introducing basketball to a market dominated by soccer and baseball, the differences in coaching styles between the NBA and international leagues, and the potential for NBA expansion into Mexico. Lagios emphasizes the importance of cultural perspectives in sports and the rising interest in basketball in Mexico, highlighting the passion of fans and the talent present in local leagues. Follow us on IG for the latest news on NBA expansion: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_sonics/ SPONSORED BY Simply Seattle Shop Sonics gear here: https://www.simplyseattle.com/collections/seattle-supersonics