Ask the CEO
Published on April 15, 2006 under American Basketball Association (ABA) News Release
Question from Mary L, Portland, OR (and others): "How do you feel about the problems the NBA is having in Portland and Seattle?"
Answer: Mary and others. First, I'm not sure why so many of you have asked me about NBA problems. My concentration is on the ABA and its expansion and success. But, as long as you all have asked, I'll make a couple of comments. I think both Portland and Seattle are excellent NBA cities and don't agree with Mr. Stern (in reference to Seattle) that "the city is not interested in having the NBA there." Howard Shultz is an excellent owner as is Paul Allen of the Portland Trailblazers. But the cost of operating an NBA team has become enormous and in order to profit, teams must now seek support from their cities and states to survive. In the case of Seattle, state lawmakers have to approve a sales-tax package to pay for a new arena to keep the team there. This does not seem fair to the fans and taxpayers. They just want great NBA basketball and have supported their teams which are privately owned businesses. They support their teams by buying tickets and merchandise - but are asked to do much more. With ticket prices at $50, $100, $200, the NBA is getting out of the reach of the average fan, including families with children. America loves McDonalds. But if McDonalds started charging $10, $20, $30 for a Big Mac or Egg McMuffin, I think families would re-consider where they ate. I think Seattle and Portland are the tip of the iceberg. And it's also why I think that the ABA will flourish - because we will continue to offer exciting, fast-paced, fan-friendly professional basketball and entertainment at affordable prices. And I hope that both the Trailblazers and Sonics stay where they are and have great success because the fans of both cities deserve it. Just my opinion. Thanks for the question. If you have a question, email joenewman@abalive.com.
Note: OurSports Central no longer actively covers the American Basketball Association (ABA) as a professional league due in part to its inability to publish and play a schedule and the transitory nature of many of its teams. For information on professional minor leagues, please see OSC's basketball section.
American Basketball Association Stories from April 15, 2006
- Providence team confirms 2007-2008 entry - Providence
- Ask the CEO - ABA
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
