Sonics Trial Blog
Seattle Times reporters Percy Allen, Jim Brunner and Danny O'Neil are filing updates from the courthouse throughout the day.
SubscribeJune 19, 2008 9:09 AM
Sherman Alexie causes a celebrity stir; Bennett's sticking around
Posted by Percy Allen
We're back it again.
Before the Day 4 of the six-day trial resumed at 9:02 a.m., the buzz on the federal courthouse steps was about author Sherman Alexie, who drew a small crowd of photographers and TV camera crews when he entered the building.
And here's a slight surprise, Sonics owner Clay Bennett is here today even though he won't testify any more. There was a thought he'd return to Oklahoma, but it's likely he'll sit at the defendant's table for the remainder of the trial.
Today will begin with economist Lon Hatamiya on the witness stand being questioned by Seattle attorney Jeffrey Johnson. Hatamiya said Wednesday the Sonics "make a positive contribution to the community." He's expected to attach a dollar figure to that contribution of $188 million annually.
The witness schedule includes: Sonics season-ticket holder Alexie, submission of a videotaped deposition from co-owner Aubrey McClendon; and former Sonics employee Matthew Wade, who is expected to be the final witness for the city.
The Sonics will begin their case with Brad Humphreys and Deborah Jay.
Judge Marsha Pechman said the city has a little less than seven hours of testimony remaining and the Sonics a little more than eight hours. Each side receives 15 hours.
Pechman also said she's read McClendon's deposition.
Johnson is questioning Hatamiya.
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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
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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
Gallery | 25th anniversary of Sonics world championship
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Other links
Trial coverage from www.newok.com
ESPN.com | Hope (still) springs in Seattle