Ask the CEO
Published on March 17, 2007 under American Basketball Association (ABA) News Release
Questions from many: "What is happening with ranked teams that are not in the playoffs (Detroit, Maryland, Palm Beach, Minnesota and Arkansas?"
Answer: First, let me say that I am overwhelmed at the tremendous number of questions we're receiving about the playoffs and the huge interest there is in the ABA and the playoffs. Obviously, the popularity of the ABA is growing immensely and that pleases us very much. The quality of ABA basketball is outstanding and it is obvious that fans appreciate the affordability so that they can attend the games without having to make a home equity loan.
That being said, there is concern about a few of the teams that decided not to compete in the playoffs or dropped out of the playoffs. While we are sorry about this situation for the coaches, the players and the fans, there are valid acceptable reasons for the decisions made by Detroit, Maryland, Palm Beach and Minnesota.
The ABA is not the NBA or NCAA. Many ABA players sign international contracts and ask to be released in early and mid-March by their teams. And there are financial considerations about extending the season for 2-3 weeks of playoffs. All of the abovementioned teams are well run, quality organizations in good standing with the league and we respect their decisions not to compete for whatever their reasons. Arkansas was suspended for failure to meet league standards and requirements. Meantime, the teams we have in the tournament are excellent teams and the playoffs are running smoothly with some great games.
This was a tough question because it is very controversial and there is so much interest in what is happening. As mentioned in the previous Ask the CEO, overall we have had a great season with some problems. But we are a "work in progress" and we will continue to grow and continue to provide exciting professional basketball at affordable prices in over 60 cities next season - and the remainder of the playoffs should be terrific as there are great teams competing. Again, thank you for your questions and interest. 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 March 17, 2007
- Fame defeats Buzz in playoff contest - Hollywood Fame
- Quad City heads to Texas for Quaterfinal Contest - Quad City Riverhawks
- Bellingham opens playoffs tonight against Hollywood - Bellingham Slam
- 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.
