With a basketball in hand, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell delivered a diabolic blow to NBA fans Still rolled from the loss of their previous franchise.

Harrell interrupted his State of the City address in Benaroya Hall on Tuesday to tease the return of Seattle Supersonics, something basketball fans in the city have longed for since the team moved to Oklahoma City In 2008.

The only problem? It was all said in joke.

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“Right now, at this moment, I have a message to give,” Harrell said, reaching during his podium to pull out a basketball.

The movement caused loud cheer from those present, but the joy of space quickly turned to frustration after Harrell revealed he was “just fun.”

“This is a long speech. I had to break it up a bit here,” Lo Harrell through the reactions of the quantities.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell participates in the Rain City Showcase game between Portland Trail Blazers and La Clippers in Climate Pledge Arena on October 11, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. T. (Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

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NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in September that the league would discuss the topic of expansion games at some point in the season.

But during the NBA All-Star weekend, the topic was not erected.

Seattle and Las Vegas – both cities successfully WNBA team – Has been floated as potential landing places for another franchise.

Seattle Storm Frem Nneka Ogwumike (3) shoots the ball against La Sparks Forward Dearica Hamby (5) and La Sparks Frem Rickeea Jackson (2) in the second half in Crypto.com Arena on July 16, 2024. (Kirby Lee -usa Today Sports)

Silver said back in June that both of these destinations have previously moved.

“There has been some discussion about going back to Seattle, potentially,” Silver said at that time via NBC Sports. “Las Vegas is undoubtedly very interested in a team. Mexico City one day.”

For the time being, Sonics fans just have to stay optimistic.