Your Black World reports
With the NBA lockout in full force, some are speculating on whether the players can create a league of their own. Billy Hunter, the head of the former players union, has speculated that this is a distinct possibility, as has DeMaurice Smith, the head of the NFL Players Association.
"Maybe we can start our own league," said Hunter. "There are (facilities) where we can do that. Can't play at MSG but can play at St John's. "There's talk of getting a TV deal and creating a new league but it'd have to be with a network that's unafraid to cross the NBA.”
The NBA players have strong brands that are recognized throughout the world. But the climb toward creating their own league would take a lot of work. Players would have the power of ownership, but would likely have to endure pay cuts in order to make it work. Some players, like Kobe Bryant and other superstars, have plenty of wealth to invest, and can also obtain additional financing. But too many other players have not properly managed their money.
At the same time, many players remain optimistic about the possibility of having their own league. They would simply have to work around the NBA and find a television network that doesn’t fear the massive power of the league. The lockout has led to the cancellation of the current NBA season, so players have plenty of time to consider their options.
2 comments:
I see no reason why they shouldn't be able to do so. They have so many resources, way more than the NBA or ABA started with.
Yes indeed, they can and should make the power move to do it! It would be a huge accomplishment and paradigm shift; but is the old NBA oligarchy willing to concede control?
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