Ask the CEO

June 13, 2006 - American Basketball Association (ABA) News Release


Question from Bill W, Miami (where else?) Do you think the NBA should give fines to players who don't do after-game interviews? (I'll leave your comments about Shaq out).

Bill. Thank you for asking the question though it's not really my business. Those are NBA rules. The teams and players know them. I wish the media and press would give ABA players as much of an opportunity for interviews as they do NBA players. We have some very interesting guys in the league - very verbal - very articulate - and they would be delighted to talk. For hours.

However, to answer your question, personally I don't believe that leagues should give fines to either players or teams for not giving after game interviews. I believe that if a player wants to be interviewed, he should do the interview, and if not, he shouldn't. A lot of players, like Shaq, are very competitive and take losing very hard. Doing an interview after a big disappointment should be a matter of choice. While the press and media are very important, making it a matter of choice by the player seems more fair. I would estimate that over 90% of all professional players understand the valuable role of the press and media and are eager to make themselves available. Let's give those that don't want to talk at a particular time a little break. Example, Shaq endorses a lot of products and knows his endorsements and sales of the products depend upon his exposure and the favorable impression he has with fans. To fine him for not wanting to talk to the media after a humiliating loss? Spare me. But, that's what the NBA can do. If you have a question, please 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 June 13, 2006


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