Brooklyn Nets fans probably don’t need to panic. But yes, there’s officially chatter again about the possibility of the franchise returning to New Jersey.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill recently admitted she would welcome the idea of bringing the Nets back across the river after more than a decade in Brooklyn.
“I love the idea,” Sherrill said during an appearance at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. “I have been pressing for that.”
The Nets spent 35 seasons in New Jersey before relocating to Brooklyn ahead of the 2012-13 season. During their New Jersey years, the franchise reached its only two NBA Finals appearances behind Jason Kidd in 2002 and 2003.
Still, despite the nostalgia, an actual move back to New Jersey sounds extremely unlikely.
According to the New York Post, a league source said there have been “no conversations” between Nets ownership and the governor’s office regarding any potential relocation.
“They’re perfectly happy in Brooklyn,” the source said.
Financially, it’s easy to see why.
The move to Brooklyn dramatically increased the franchise’s value and visibility. Before relocating, the Nets reportedly ranked just 21st in NBA franchise value. According to NBC Sports, the organization is now valued around $6 billion, ranking among the league’s top 10 franchises.
The YES Network television deal certainly helped there too.
Brooklyn also continues drawing strong attendance despite ongoing rebuilding efforts. The Nets averaged more than 17,000 fans per game this season and nearly sold out most nights.
That said, Sherrill hinted New Jersey may still be working behind the scenes to land some type of professional sports presence in Newark.
“I do think there is some work being done,” she said. “Some people are working on some different sports coming into the Rock.”
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