New images of ‘thoughtful design’ for Sonics arena

The investment group dedicated to bringing back an NBA team to Seattle has released images of the “Sonics Rings” it envisions for a new arena in the SoDo neighborhood.

Investor Chris Hansen writes on his blog that they want to make sure the fans have an intimate experience with a superior view of the court.

As shown in the artist renderings, the new arena would feature modular seating that could be removed for a less than sell-out crowd. Fewer seats would give a fan a more intimate feel.

Each level or “ring” would have 800-900 fixed seats with drink rails and standing room, which would mean space for another 700-1,500 patrons per level.

Hansen says he understands it’s not always easy to justify buying a ticket when fans have a cozy seat in front of an HDTV or a booth at the bar. He’s hoping a variety of themes will sweeten the deal. One ring may cater to a sports bar fan while another offers fewer distractions. There will even be space for a young fan who finds it hard to sit still for a whole game.

Hansen says he hopes Sonics fans appreciate the thoughtfulness they put into the new building’s design. He also encouraged everyone to sign up for the Priority Ticket Waitlist, which closes at 1:00 p.m. on April 1.

“As we head toward what is hopefully the finish line, I would just like to say what an amazing experience this has been,” Hansen writes. “It’s your passion that has inspired me to press ahead as hard as I have, and it’s something I will be forever grateful for.”

On April 3, both Hansen’s group and an investment group in Sacramento will present their plans in front of the NBA’s board of governors to determine the future of the Kings’ location.