Portland Trail Blazers Relocation Looms Amid Moda Center Renovation Funding Dispute
The Portland Trail Blazers are facing a major crisis as they struggle to secure funding for Moda Center renovations, potentially threatening the team's future in the city. The team is seeking $600 million in public funds, but the city has yet to agree to contribute.
What Happened?
In August 2024, the city of Portland bought the Moda Center for $1 from the Paul Allen Estate. The team and the city have been splitting the maintenance bills, which range from $8 million to $10 million annually. However, the Blazers are now seeking $600 million in public funds to upgrade the arena, which is the oldest NBA arena that hasn’t been renovated.
Why It Matters for Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers are seeking a 20-year lease to play in the Moda Center, but the city has yet to agree to contribute $120 million. If the city and/or county does not agree to release funding, the state’s money goes away. The team has been noncommittal about staying in Portland, and owner Tom Dundon has said he will commit 20 years to the city if the public funds renovations to the arena.
What Comes Next?
The city council has asked the Blazers to show how they will spend the money, but the team has been absent from the bargaining table and has yet to disclose plans, renderings or detailed project specifics. The five county commissioners are trying to appease union and voter concerns that the funding would take away from more critical and pressing county services. The county has proposed using a tax on rental cars to help cover the $88 million the county would fund.
Recent Form
The Portland Trail Blazers have been struggling on the court, losing their last 5 games. Their recent form is 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first). They most recently lost to the San Antonio Spurs 114-95 on April 29, 2026.
The Blazers are seeking a long-term solution to their arena woes, but the city is hesitant to commit to funding. The team's future in Portland hangs in the balance, and it remains to be seen whether they will be able to secure the funding they need to stay in the city.
