San Antonio Spurs rep refuses to say whether team will leave town if arena vote fails next month

During a contentious town hall in San Antonio, Spurs General Counsel Bobby Perez sidestepped inquiries regarding the team's potential relocation if voters reject a publicly financed arena deal in November. He emphasized the team's focus on the upcoming vote, hoping for support for Propositions A and B. Audience members vocally challenged Perez, demanding clear answers and expressing disbelief over his reassurances. Professor Heywood Sanders, invited to the event, voiced concerns about the funding and logistics of the broader Project Marvel initiative, which includes a land bridge and other developments. Sanders pointed out the uncertainty surrounding federal grant funding for the land bridge and questioned Perez's claims that only visitors would finance the new arena.

He stated, “A ‘No’ vote is not a vote against the Spurs,” underscoring the need for better public engagement in such significant financial decisions. The Spurs face a critical moment as the city prepares for the November vote, which could determine the future of the franchise in San Antonio. The outcome will not only affect the team but also the broader economic landscape of the region.