Mayor Nickels to testify today

The trial starts today in Seattle's lawsuit to keep the Sonics at KeyArena for two more seasons. Mayor Greg Nickels is to take the stand today, as may Sonics owner Clay Bennett.

Seattle Times reporters will file dispatches with the latest from the courthouse throughout the day.

The city is suing Sonics owner Clay Bennett and his partners to force the Sonics to play out the final two seasons left on the lease at KeyArena, through September 2010. Bennett has received permission from the NBA to move the team to his hometown of Oklahoma City, and he says the city should let the team leave now in exchange for a cash buyout.

For those who want to see the trial, seating will be limited. There will be 44 seats available for each morning session, and 44 seats available for each afternoon session of the trial.The seats will be assigned by random drawing at the beginning of each trial day.Numbered tickets will be handed out between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. each day and drawings will start promptly at 8 a.m.

Also, those who have winning tickets will be given a pass and a hand stamp, and must present both before entering the courtroom.

Sessions start at 9 a.m. and end by 4 p.m., with recesses and a lunch break in between. The trial will be held at the U.S. District Court, 700 Stewart St., Seattle.