A plan to relocate the San Antonio Stars is taking shape, as outlets are reporting that the team will be purchased and moved by a Las Vegas-based buyer.
Over the last several days, reports have indicated that the Stars could be sold. The team has called San Antonio its home since 2003, but discussions are reportedly taking place for a deal that could lead to a Las Vegas-based buyer purchasing the team with the intention of relocating it to Las Vegas.
Last week, the Stars issued a statement saying “WNBA and Spurs Sports & Entertainment have been in negotiations with a buyer to purchase and relocate the San Antonio Stars,” and more information has surfaced since. More from AP:
The Stars announced Thursday on social media that the team was in negotiations to be bought and moved. The buyer is based in Las Vegas, another person with knowledge of the sale told the AP on Thursday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because neither the team nor the WNBA have disclosed information about the buyer.
“Negotiations with a potential buyer of the Stars team are ongoing,” WNBA spokeswoman Dina Skokos said in a statement on Thursday. “Once those discussions are concluded, we will provide additional information.”
The franchise moved to San Antonio from Utah in 2003. Led by Becky Hammon, the Stars reached the WNBA Finals in 2008.
If this move comes to fruition, it would be the latest addition to the Las Vegas sports scene. The NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights recently made their home debut, while the city is set to debut a professional soccer club in the USL next year. In addition, the Oakland Raiders are planning to relocate to the city when a new stadium opens in 2020. The AP also reports that Bill Laimbeer will become the WNBA team’s head coach and general manager once the sale and relocation is completed.
