Q and A with Shawn Blattenberger
by Chris Rouhier, www.ABAsite.tk
June 9, 2005 - American Basketball Association (ABA)
Los Angeles Aftershock
Shawn Blattenberger is the owner and president of the Los Angeles Aftershock, and was kind enough to participate in the www.ABAsite.tk Q and A. His answers are much appreciated, and thank him if you get the chance.
- Why did you join the ABA?
The love for basketball and the growth of the ABA provides an opportunity to be a part of the game
-Did you explore other minor leagues (basketball or otherwise)?
No .
-What is your background in sports?
College Basketball Player that played under current Aftershock Head Coach Andre Smith
-What do you think is the biggest obstacle to achieving success with your team?
Overcoming past ABA Los Angeles franchise issues, selection of players from a large and quality player pool in Southern California
-How will your team approach that obstacle?
Proactive marketing and persistence, making the organization available and accessible to the community. Quality and competent operations will drive this franchise. Being Professional in all aspects of operations and play.
- In a large market like Los Angeles, what is your plan for breaking into the market and making the team a success?
Choosing the best players, the best management, providing professional contracts and following through on them, partnering with the community to build a team that represents the quality of player in the market and one to be proud of. The games will be broadcasted and should allow fans locally and abroad to follow the team throughout the season.
-What will define a successful year for your team off the court?
Being the premiere team and organization in the ABA.
-What are your impressions of the new regulations the ABA has implemented?
The new standards are why we are excited about the upcoming 2005-2006 season. Higher standards should mean higher accomplishments and expectations.
-Are there any you would like to have seen added, but were not?
No.
-How do you view the ABA vs. other minor league basketball (CBA, NBDL, etc.)?
The ABA has a better business plan that allows for a wider range of talent and business operations across the board. The other leagues have some wonderful business points, but the new standards of the ABA should make it more appealing and fan friendly.
-Have you secured a venue for the upcoming season?
The agreement is in place with Los Angeles Southwest College. The facility is a wonderful venue with amenities added for past relationships with the Lakers and Clippers and local basketball events. This arena should provide a great home for exciting game events with the Los Angeles Aftershock.
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 9, 2005
- Dominick Young pulls Central Dawgs of Visalia out of ABA until 06/07 season - Central Valley Dawgs
- Stallions schedule second tryout camp - San Antonio Stallions
- Talons announce South Dakota tryout camp - Gallup Outlaws
- Q and A with Shawn Blattenberger - OSC Original by Chris Rouhier, www.ABAsite.tk
- Long Beach Jam withdraw from ABA - Maywood Laguneros
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer(s), and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
