The issue in Sacramento, as it was in Seattle, is the lack of what the NBA considers an adequate arena. Stern said he believes the team will continue, for now, to play at aging Power Balance Pavilion after the Maloof family's ownership group balked at plans for a new arena.
''That's their prerogative. As long as it stands and passes the fire code, I think it's been a terrific place for the fans of Sacramento,'' Stern said, not exactly giving his seal of approval.
''I think if you ask the fans, they'd say it's better there than no place. I'll say it again: The fans of Sacramento, the businesses of Sacramento, the city of Sacramento have been great partners of the NBA.''