Clay Bennett is a prominent American businessman who serves as the chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder, an NBA franchise. His path to NBA ownership was highly contentious, centered around the relocation of the beloved Seattle SuperSonics.
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Who is Clay Bennett?
Born in Oklahoma City, Clay Bennett is a successful entrepreneur and key figure in various civic organizations within the city. He heads the Dorchester Capital Corporation, a private investment firm.
Clay Bennett Bio
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Clayton Ike Bennett |
| Born | 1959 |
| Birthplace | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA |
| Age | 64 years old |
| Occupation | Businessman, Chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA) |
| Known For | Controversial purchase and relocation of the Seattle SuperSonics to Oklahoma City |
| Net Worth | Approximately $400 million |
| Company | Chairman of Dorchester Capital Corporation (private investment firm) |
| Family | Married, with children |
| Other Interests | Civic involvement in Oklahoma City |
How old is Clay Bennett?
Clay Bennett was born in 1959, making him 65 years old
Career
Bennett’s business ventures are diverse. Along with Dorchester Capital, he has been involved in banking and other industries. His passion for Oklahoma City spurred his interest in bringing professional sports to the region.
How did Clay Bennett get famous?
Bennett gained notoriety in 2006 when he led a group of investors who purchased the Seattle SuperSonics and the Seattle Storm (WNBA) from Starbucks chairman Howard Schultz. The purchase agreement included a stipulation that the team would remain in Seattle for a specified period unless a new, modern arena could be secured.
Do Clay Bennett have kids?
Yes, Clay Bennett has children, but their personal lives are kept largely private.
Clay Bennett Net Worth
Clay Bennett’s estimated net worth is in the range of $400 million.
The Seattle SuperSonics Controversy
Despite Bennett’s initial claims of intending to keep the team in Seattle, public funding for a new arena faced immense opposition. After failed negotiations with city officials, Bennett announced plans to relocate the SuperSonics to Oklahoma City, prompting a bitter legal battle with Seattle in an attempt to break the lease with the city-owned Key Arena. Ultimately, the relocation was finalized.
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How did Clay Bennett make money?
Clay Bennett amassed his fortune through his successful private investment firm, Dorchester Capital Corporation, and several additional business endeavors.
How much is the OKC Thunder worth?
The Oklahoma City Thunder is currently valued at approximately $2.25 billion according to Forbes.
Does Alex Bennett own the Thunder?
While Alex Bennett, Clay Bennett’s son, is involved in the organization, he is not listed as an owner. The ownership primarily belongs to Clay Bennett.
Who is the ownership group of the OKC Thunder?
The Oklahoma City Thunder is owned by the Professional Basketball Club LLC. Clay Bennett is the chairman of this ownership group.
Conclusion
Clay Bennett is an influential businessman whose actions dramatically altered the NBA landscape. While he made Oklahoma City a significant player in professional basketball, his role in the demise of the Seattle SuperSonics continues to ignite controversy and debate among sports fans, making him a complex figure within the NBA.
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FAQs about Clay Bennett: The Controversial Path to Oklahoma City
- Why is Clay Bennett a controversial figure? His role in relocating the Seattle SuperSonics is heavily criticized due to allegations of failing to negotiate in good faith with Seattle regarding an arena deal.
- Was a lawsuit involved in the Seattle SuperSonics relocation? Yes, the City of Seattle sued Bennett’s ownership group, leading to an eventual settlement.
- Did Clay Bennett always intend to take the team to Oklahoma City? His intentions remain a subject of debate.
- Where did the OKC Thunder name come from? Oklahoma’s weather patterns and Native American heritage informed the choice.
- Is Bennett’s legacy solely that of the SuperSonics relocation? No, he is also a respected Oklahoma City business leader and philanthropist.
