Sonics Trial Blog
Seattle Times reporters Percy Allen, Jim Brunner and Danny O'Neil are filing updates from the courthouse throughout the day.
June 19, 2008 11:58 AM
Battle of the economists
Posted by Percy Allen
At this point in the trial, we have the battle of the economists.
The Sonics began their case with Associate Professor Brad Humphreys who teaches at the University of Alberta in Canada.
Humphreys is refuting earlier claims by economists Lon Hatamiya and Andrew Zimbalist who were called by the city. Humphreys said his theories are widely accepted by other economists.
When Sonics attorney Paul Taylor asked if the departure of a professional franchise would have an impact on that city or its economy, Humphreys said: "It won't have an impact on Seattle's economy. It will only re-distribute spending."
Taylor asked what happens to the money spent on the Sonics.
"It will be spent somewhere else in the Seattle area," Humphreys said. "They won't be going to KeyArena. They wont be going to games ... they'll spend it on some other alternative activity."
Taylor concluded his questioning and Seattle attorney Paul Lawrence began cross-examination.
Jul 2, 08 - 02:01 PM
Godden: Looks like a settlement for Sonics and city
Jul 2, 08 - 11:49 AM
City and the Sonics discussing settlement?
Jul 2, 08 - 06:00 AM
Judge to rule today in Sonics case
Jun 26, 08 - 07:44 PM
Confidential? Let's talk about it: Slade Gorton's NBA meeting
Jun 26, 08 - 07:22 PM
Press conference audio

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Recent stories
Sonics attorneys focus on city's "poisoned well" plan
Bennett says Sonics could lose $60 million if forced to stay in Seattle 2 more years
Sonics CEO: Fans are apathetic
Clay's excuses sound as contrived as his arena plan
On the hot seat: Sonics' attorney trips up Nickels
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This judge will decide the fate of the Sonics
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E-mails reveal Sonics owners intended to bolt from Seattle
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Documents
2007 "Poisoned Well" document (PDF)
Ward: "Are we doomed to have another lameduck season in Seattle?" (PDF)
Bennett's e-mail to Stern: "You are just one of my favorite people on earth" (PDF)
Clay Bennett and Sonics' court filing (PDF)
Multimedia
Gallery | Seattle SuperSonics: Lasting memories
Gallery | Bittersweet night for Sonics fans
Gallery | Sonics through the years
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Fans weigh in about the state of the Sonics
Cartoon | Schultz jumps into action
Talk about the team in the Sonics forum
Other links
Trial coverage from www.newok.com
ESPN.com | Hope (still) springs in Seattle
