She’s Back! Diana Taurasi re-signs with the Mercury
» Posted on August 29th, 2010 in WNBA | No Comments »
The WNBA Playoffs are in full swing!
Angel McCoughtry and the Atlanta Dream sent the Washington Mystics packing. Tonight I’m watching the other Eastern Conference series that might come to a close if the New York Liberty can pull out a win against the Indiana Fever on its home court. Yesterday, MVP candidate Lauren Jackson and the Seattle Storm closed out Tina Thompson and the LA Sparks. The Sparks were playing without its star forward, Candace Parker, who has been out rehabbing from shoulder surgery. Candace Parker is a tough competitor, and I expect that she will be back next season ready to lead the team to a WNBA Championship. The other side of the Western Conference final is set as well. The San Antonio Silver Stars couldn’t handle strength and dominance of Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury.
As I watched Taurasi and her teammates play, I couldn’t help but think what next season would look like without her. Last month, Taurasi publicly stated that she was contemplating taking the 2011 WNBA season off to rest. She has played seven professional basketball seasons without a break, and prior to her professional career she was a student collegiate player with the Connecticut Huskies where she led them to three consecutive NCAA National Championships. While student-athletes technically have a summer break, we all know that champions are made in the off season. Taurasi’s total is closer to eleven consecutive seasons of competitive basketball, and of course that doesn’t include high school and AAU basketball.
Prior to the 1997 inaugural season of the WNBA, women’s basketball players either played professionally overseas or stopped playing ball altogether. There were other short-lived leagues in the states, but the WNBA is the only women’s pro league that has been able to sustain itself over a long period of time. Currently, the league’s regular season runs during the summer for roughly four months (the schedule is known to adjust based on the Olympic or World Championship schedules). The timing of the schedule allows players to continue playing overseas, and play at home in front of family, friends, and hometown fans. What many fans don’t realize is that the salaries overseas are nearly five times as much as the WNBA salaries. In 2010, the WNBA league minimum was $35,880 and the maximum was $101,500.
I’m not sure if the timing of WNBA schedule was created to avoid competition with the NBA and the women’s collegiate game; or if it was created to allow players to play in both the international professional system, as well as the WNBA. Either way, we do know that the current arrangement is physically taking a toll on the players that are choosing to do both. And there’s no question that the salaries for the WNBA players need to increase. While I understand that the WNBA season is currently a fraction of the NBA season, which can partly explain why the WNBA salaries are a fraction of the NBA salaries - there is still however a big divide.
Last week Diana Taurasi re-signed with the Mercury with a multi-year contract. Not only was this a sigh of relief for Mercury fans, because who wants to watch their favorite team play without its star player? This signing also eliminated what could have been a PR disaster for the league. It is one thing when a player is out due to an injury, but it’s another when the player is out because she’s choosing the international league over the WNBA.
Luckily, this chapter ended on a high note for Diana Taurasi and the WNBA. I wonder what will happen next time this situation comes up? Will the team be able to keep its star player home and in front of the home fans?
The WNBA has grown over the last 14 seasons. More and more young girls are dreaming of becoming professional basketball players, and that wasn’t the case when I was growing up. The league has survived harsh criticism and the economic meltdown – to say the least. Let’s all remember the old saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day” – and by the way neither was the MLB, NFL, or NBA.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
Boys Behaving Badly
» Posted on August 17th, 2010 in Uncategorized | No Comments »
What’s up with all of the boys behaving badly lately? Yes, I called them boys. Real men do not act like this.
In the last week we’ve seen NY Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez tear a ligament in his pitching hand after getting into an altercation
with his girlfriend’s father. Indiana Pacers 2010 draft pick, Lance Stephenson, was arrested for assault after pushing is girlfriend down a flight of stairs and then hitting her head against the bottom step. And finally Miami Heat forward, Udonis Haslem, was arrested for possession of marijuana following a traffic stop.
I’m not sure which one of these incidents is worse.
The passenger in Haslem’s vehicle has stated the marijuana was his. It was found in the passenger’s luggage and it’s possible that Haslem will be cleared. Even if he is cleared, what part of “I am a professional athlete and I have a lot to lose so don’t do anything stupid around me” does Haslem not understand. I’m sorry, I just don’t get it.
The Stephenson situation is very sad. He is 19 years old and clearly is young and immature. Domestic violence is serious and it is something that I personally don’t take lightly. Larry Bird, Pacers President, issued a statement saying the arrest is “very disappointing to the Pacers franchise and to me personally.” Yup it’s disappointing alright and I am sure there are a few other choice words that Larry Bird would like to say too. If it were me I would. Then again I’m a lady and I don’t talk like that.
K-Rod’s actions have probably ended his season. The Mets suspended him for two games, which amounted to a penalty around $125K. Later, he revealed his injury to the organization and it turns out that he has torn a ligament in his pitching hand. Seriously? Yes, Mets organization your closer has a possible season ending injury that occurred off the field. Oh yeah, he has been charged with third-degree assault, second-degree harassment and the entire incident occurred at Citi Field. The Mets organization has said that they are disappointed, discouraged, and frustrated by the situation. I have to hand it to them, they have been very calm when it comes to addressing the media.
There is talk that the Mets should attempt to void the remainder of K-Rod’s contract. He is set to make $11.5 million this season and the same in 2011.
If I was the owner of the Mets or Pacers I am refusing to pay you if you’re not playing. It’s just that simple. Now let me just clarify something. I have no problem paying an athlete if he’s injured in the course of competing or they have another medical issue that might not be competition related but wasn’t self inflicted either. What I do have a problem with are situations where the athlete clearly had an opportunity to choose, and unfortunately they chose wrongly.
Also, I am ok with second chances. However, looking at all three of these situations it looks like second chances might have to be awarded on a case-by-case basis.
Here’s the point that I am trying to make, professional athletes please act like professionals. And while you’re at it remind all of your friends that they must act professionally too. Oh one more thing. Just in case you’re wondering, yes athletes are role models. Charles Barkley please give me a call if you want to chat about this.
I can’t blame age or inexperience on what happened here. Haslam is 30 years old and K-Rod is 28 years old. Yes, Stephenson is young – he’s 19 years old. Nonetheless, there are plenty of 19 year olds out there that are not professional athletes and not beating their girlfriends either.
I wish there was a quick fix or solution to these situations. I know the NBA, NFL, and MLB provide extensive training as it relates to drug policies and codes of conduct. And prior to draft day, the athletes are subjected to background checks and extensive interviews. We’ve seen time and time again that there isn’t a set formula for finding the “model” professional athlete. We’ve seen guys that graduated from college act as childish as those that only finished high school. And we’ve seen athletes that had both parents in the home make decisions that most critics believe only those raised by a single parent would make. Again, it is impossible to predict how an athlete is going to behave once they sign their contract.
At the end of the day, I think all an owner can do is set a policy and stick to enforcing it. Create a culture that includes on-going professional development training and a standard of excellence. The athletes that are committed to the team and winning will rise above those that just want to be – boys.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
A Return to Detroit
» Posted on August 10th, 2010 in NBA | 2 Comments »
It’s official. After months of speculation, Mike Ilitch, current owner of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers, has stated that he wants to buy the Detroit Pistons. Aside from me being the owner. I couldn’t be happier that Ilitch is going to make a bid. While it is known that Davidson and Ilitch families didn’t exactly get along over the years, I think that I can speak for the rest of the Detroit fans that today we’re all breathing a sigh of relief.
Mike Ilitch and his wife, Marian, began building their business empire, if you will, in 1959 with a small mom and pop pizza store front
called “Little Caesars Pizza.” After franchising and expanding the business has grown into a billion dollar industry. In 2007, it was reported that Ilitch holdings $1.8 billion. Not only do the holdings including Little Caesars, but it also includes the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers.
Ilitch purchased the Wings in 1982 and turned the “Dead Wings” into Hockey Town by winning for Stanley Cups (1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008). Ten years later, in 1992, Ilitch bought the Detroit Tigers from Domino’s Pizza competitor, Tom Monaghan. In 2000, the team moved from the historic Tigers Stadium to Comerica Park. The team struggled with losing records for many years and it wasn’t until 2006 under the leadership of Manager, Jim Leyland, and General Manager, Dave Dombrowski, that the Tigers finally made it to the playoffs.
For years Ilitch has denied any interest in basketball and has firmly restated his commitment to the City of Detroit. Today’s announcement has changed everything.
In Ilitch’s statement (see the following link for the full announcement http://www.freep.com/article/20100809/SPORTS03/100809026/Read-the-full-statement-from-Ilitch-on-the-Pistons) he said “Marian and I grew up here, we raised our family here and we built our businesses here. Detroit is our home. When I read in the paper there was the chance that this great sports town could lose one of its professional sports franchises, I just didn’t see how we could let that happen.” He went on to say, “The Pistons are just like the Red Wings, Tigers and the Lions, have a rich and storied tradition in this community and they’ve brought pride to fans and our community.”
Yes, the Pistons have a rich tradition and the team has brought pride to our community. The franchise was founded in 1941 as the Fort Wayne Pistons. The team moved from Indiana to Detroit in 1957. In 1974, Zollner sold the team to Bill Davidson or Mr. D, as the players called him, remained the principal owner until his passing in 2009. In 1978, in search of greener pastures Davidson moved the team from Detroit to the suburbs. They played in the Silverdome football stadium until Davidson was able to complete his vision of building his own state-of-the-art arena. The Palace of Auburn Hills was constructed in 1988 (just in time for back to back NBA Championships) and at the time critics balked at Davidson’s plans. First, it appeared that he was building in the middle of nowhere. Second, critics wondered if he would even successfully finance the project.
Years later we now know that Davidson’s vision was right on target. The Oakland County area has rapidly grown and is one of the wealthiest counties in the State of Michigan. The once in a desolate area is now home to commercial and residential real estate – if you build it they will come is exactly what happened. Davidson also financed the project himself, and he didn’t attempt to handcuff the state or local government into paying for the project. The Palace was constructed with lower level suites, which was the first of its kind. Arenas built after The Palace were constructed after this model. For 35 years the Pistons had a single owner and was a model NBA franchise.
As Mr. D began to age many sports fans, myself included, began to speculate on the Pistons future. Did Mr. D have a rock solid succession plan? Would the new owner maintain the Pistons “blue collar” “going to work” identity? Would the team stay in the suburbs or would they move back to Detroit?
When Mr. D passed away in 2009 his wife, Karen Davidson, took over as principle owner of the team. The Detroit Shock, the Pistons WNBA sister team, was sold roughly seven months later (see Ode to the Detroit Shock). At that point the writing was on the wall. It was clear that Mr. D’s franchise was headed down a different path than the one he spent years building and creating. Karen Davidson eventually announced during the 2009-2010 season that the Pistons were indeed for sale. 
While General Manager, Joe Dumars, maintained his role as the leader of the basketball operations, it was clear that the business side was in for a big change. Long-time Pistons President, Tom Wilson, left the team and began work for the Ilitch holdings and many other front-office executives followed. Speculation of Ilitch’s interest in the Piston grew even heavier when Ilitch announced that Wilson would be developing the new downtown arena plans for the Red Wings. This is the same role that Wilson had for Davidson some 20 odd years earlier.
I can see several different scenarios surrounding the arena issue.
Scenario #1 - Ilitch moves forward with his plans to build an arena for the Wings in Detroit. Hockey Town stays Hockey Town and that doesn’t change. Ilitch buys the Pistons but doesn’t buy Palace Sports and Entertainment. Essentially, he buys the Pistons “asset” but doesn’t buy any of the infrastructures to go with it, which includes DTE, f/k/a Pine Knob, Meadow Brook, and The Palace. Ilitch leases the space at The Palace until 2012 or 2013 and then moves the team to Detroit.
Scenario #2 – This involves Ilitch buying The Palace and doing a “180.” He keeps the team at The Palace and moves the Red Wings to the suburbs. He tells everyone that he had to choose between building an arena in Detroit and not being able to buy the Pistons, or buying the team and moving the Wings to an existing state-of-the-art facility. While I don’t think this is the ideal situation, I can see this happening. Credit isn’t flowing like it used to and might be too much to buy at team and finance an arena. Unless…he goes the public financing route. Again, this seems unlikely considering that the region is financially strapped. Money should be going to schools, transportation, etc. Should take payers be asked to fork over money for an arena. I’m not so sure about that. And I wonder if they will.
Scenario #3 – The “baller scenario” has Ilitch buying the Pistons AND building the downtown arena. Davidson tells him that she will only sell the two together. He decides to operate the Pistons in the suburbs and the Wings in the City. I find this virtually impossible and it makes no financial sense. But he would be a baller for sure if he could pull it off.
Personally, I am cheering for door number one. Build the arena and move to the City. Let’s get Detroit moving.
So what do we know?
We know that Karen Davidson wants out. We know that last year Forbes valued the team at $479 million. We know that the market is tough, but the NBA Golden State Warriors just sold for $450 million. We know that there have been rumors of other bidders wanting in too. We know these bidders are out-of-state and are anywhere from Pittsburg to Kansas City to Las Vegas. We know that the thought of the team leaving the region was enough for Mike Ilitch to want in. We know that Dave Bing, former Piston and current Detroit Mayor, would like to see the Pistons return to Detroit. We know that L. Brooks Patterson, current Oakland County Executive, wants to see the Pistons stay in Oakland County. We know that Detroit is struggling and can use an economic boost. We know that Detroit and Oakland County have a dysfunctional working relationship. We know that if the announcement is made that the Pistons are moving to Detroit there are members of the Oakland County community that will not let them go quietly.
I hope this doesn’t turn into a city versus suburbs debate. That debate has gone on far too long. I don’t think that the city getting the Pistons means the suburbs has to lose. I think there is a chance that it can be a win-win for both sides. While the NFL’s Detroit Lions move from my town, Pontiac, Michigan, created a noticeable impact. I think that the benefits for the region that Ford Field created have been far greater asset than a disadvantage.
At the end of the day I am happy to see a local bidder, and a bidder that has a strong respected reputation within the community. A bidder that has the capability to keep the Pistons legacy going and create a new vision for the future – without missing a beat.
I love sports because it brings people together. Collectively it gives everyone something to cheer about. Michiganders love Faygo Pop, Better Made Potato Chips, and we love cheering for our sports teams. I think we will love cheering for the Pistons and a return to Detroit.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
Isiah Thomas – Back in a New York Minute
» Posted on August 7th, 2010 in NBA | 3 Comments »
Things that make you go hmmm…
That was my reaction today when I heard Isiah Thomas, current Florida International University men’s basketball coach and former New York Knicks GM and head coach, is returning to the New York Knicks as a consultant. While I don’t know the relationship between Isiah Thomas and the Knicks ownership this is either an extremely questionable move or a very calculated move.
First, let me say that Isiah was a great point guard. He led my beloved Detroit Pistons to two NBA Championships (’88-’89 & ’89-’90). He was a pit bull on the court and would flash his 1,000 watt smile off the court. He put the “bad” in bad boy and his Chicago competitive roots were always on display for the world to see. Now he’s known to have strained and on again off again relationships with former players and those players not wanting to have anything to do with him.
Former LA Lakers great, Magic Johnson, stated in his book When The Game Was Ours, “‘Isiah killed his own chances when it came to
the Olympics. Nobody on that team wanted to play with him. … Michael [Jordan] didn’t want to play with him. Scottie [Pippen] wanted no part of him. Bird wasn’t pushing for him. Karl Malone didn’t want him. Who was saying, ‘We need this guy?’ Nobody.” Ouch. These comments are a long way away from the “kiss heard around the world” between Magic and Isiah during the ’88 NBA Finals.
Ok, so putting Isiah’s athletic talent aside and what he contributed to the league as a player let’s get down to the matter at hand. Is this a good move for the Knicks, and is his new position a conflict of interest?
Under Isiah’s tenure from 2004 – 2008 the Knicks had a .368 winning percentage. They reached the playoffs in his first season but then failed to make the playoffs in all later seasons. The team just didn’t win games and (I hate to say it) was the doormat of the league.
The draft picks didn’t get any better either. The most notable successful draft pick was David Lee who was the 30th pick in the 2005 draft. All other draft picks just haven’t worked out. While I know that drafting a player can be like rolling the dice, but the Knicks have passed on many guys that turned out to be great players. Rajon Rondo, Glenn “Big Baby” Davis, and Jordan Farmar were all passed up by the Knicks and went on the play in the2010 NBA Finals.
Along with the on the court woes, there also is the issue of the sexual harassment case that put a black eye on the organization. At least in my opinion it did. Madison Square Garden had to pay $6 million in damages for a hostile work environment and $2.6 million for retaliation. Knicks owner was also required to pay $3 million. In total the team (or the fans depending on which way you look at it) had to pay $11.6 million in damages. I guess what’s $11.6 million between friends?
At the end of the day Knicks fans were extremely unhappy with Isiah and the team was not performing. After Isiah’s departure Donnie Walsh, Knicks President, and Mike D’Antoni, Knicks Head Coach, were brought in to move the organization forward. Is this blast from the past what the team and new leadership needs?
There have been rumors that Isiah was instrumental in bringing in free agent, Amare Stouemire to NYC. And Isiah said it himself that he was sent by James Dolan to meet with the LeBron camp – who knows maybe Isiah almost sealed the deal. If all of that is true there might be a stronger argument for bringing Isiah back.
That was the issue of performance. Now there also the issue of a college Division 1 men’s basketball coach having an official capacity with the NBA. I always thought that this was a no-no, and that the league and NCAA had strict rules against this. Now I’ll have to get up to speed on the NCAA rules, but one thing that I know for sure is that the NCAA is constantly emphasizing that it is an organization for amateurs. And the NCAA does their best to limit player contact with NBA scouts, executives, and of course agents. Doesn’t this decision go against what the NCAA is trying to promote?
Having said that – the NBA has its own sets of rules, and one huge rule that Thomas will have to break is contact with draft eligible players. He’ll be in contact with his own players and presumably players from other teams. In my opinion it would be too difficult to separate the two positions, and this can open the flood gates for larger issues within the NCAA and NBA. More D1 coaches will want to create “official” relationships with NBA teams thinking this will assist with their recruiting.
Now if the NBA and NCAA want to agree (and I don’t think they ever will) that the NCAA in many respects is the fulfilling the role of the development league (Case in point. Look at the record number of “one and done” Kentucky Wildcat players that were drafted in 2010). And if both parties want to change the rules in light of this, then the situation with Isiah having dual roles is a different story. Until something like this happens I just see this become a bigger issue. If professional ranks and amateur ranks are meant to be separated, then it should stay that way.
Well, I can’t wait to see how this unfolds. Either way I wish Isiah and the Knick all the best. I’m tired of them being so bad and so are the die-hard Knicks fans. The Garden is such an historic arena with vast sports nostalgia that I hate to see so many poor performances taking place there. So bring on the wins – and do it in a New York Minute.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
Are You Ready For Some Football?
» Posted on August 4th, 2010 in NFL | 1 Comment »
Are you ready for some football? Yes, it is that time of year again. Training camp is in full swing and the first preseason game is just days away. The Cincinnati Bengals will be playing the Dallas Cowboys in the annual Hall of Fame game. Every year I say that I’m going to make it to Canton, but I never do. Ok, next year is the year.
Anyway, I saw this interview with Tony Dungy and it inspired me to to take a moment to hit a few of the NFL highlights to get everyone up to speed.
Favre-hound Day. Favre-ageddon. Call it what you want. The rumors are swirling around Brett Favre’s return to the Minnesota Vikings for his 20th season in the NFL. I think he’s coming back and so does Tony Dungy. Favre is a competitor and there’s no way he’s going out like that (I’m referring to the devastating loss in the NFC Championship game against the Saints). Please everyone calm down. Favre has done this many times. It’s just his unconventional way of doing things. If I’m the owner of the Vikings I’m just playing it easy and letting Favre, well be Favre. He’ll come around and let us know his decision. He always does. And by the way…has he ever let us down?
Michael Vick on the other hand he is someone that I feel let us down. Will he ever learn? Tony Dungy is mentoring him and says that he’s “quote proud of him.” I don’t know Michael Vick and I don’t know Coach Dungy either. But I have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Dungy so I will side with coach on this one. I have to say I was very disappointed to hear that he was at a club where a shooting took place. I’d really like to see Michael Vick mature. This incident was not a good start toward rebuilding his image. Philly’s owner Jeffery Lurie said that Vick’s mistake in judgment should not be confused with wronging.
Maybe the Eagles don’t have a choice with this one. Based on his contract and the availability of another quarterback - does the ownership have to keep him? If it were me I think I would have let Vick go. Sorry. I am a believer in second chances and I was one those people last season that said let Vick play. He paid his debt to society and he should be allowed to work. It just so happened that work for him was playing professional football. Believe me. I would have told him I don’t want to see your name in the paper about ANYTHING. Wasn’t the dog fighting incident a lack of judgment issue too? I will say that I give the Eagles’ owner credit for supporting Vick in the media. The last thing an owner wants to do is air dirty laundry out in public. “Ne-va ev-va” chastise a player in the media. That’s ownership 101. Again, I’ll side with Coach Dungy on this one and l’ll watch this situation play out.
Speaking of playing out. I have to see how the situation in Cincinnati plays out. For years the Bengals have been the door mat of the NFL.
"TO and Ocho BFF's"
If you needed to pick the losing team, pick the Bengals. I’m sorry but it’s true. Well the Bengals have started to turn it around. Last season the team made it back to the playoffs and this year they are expected to have another great season. Chad Ocho Cinco is back at the wide receiver position and he is joined by the Bengals newest wide receiver and reality star – Terrell Owens. Yes, T.O. and Ocho are teammates. They are reality tv buddies, which by the way I kind of like T.O.’s show. He can be deep and vulnerable sometimes, and yes I’ve even seen him shed a tear or two. O.C.’s show is another reality dating show. I’m sorry I just can’t handle anymore fake relationships.
Is there enough media attention and passes to go around for them to co-exist? And I thought O.C. was a handful. Most of th attention in Cincy was centered on O.C. and if they can keep their egos aside I think they’ll be just fine. I give the management and ownership a lot of credit. I’ve never heard any disparaging comments about O.C., his fines or touchdown dances. Someone I see everything working out. But then again – I’ll have to see this one play out.
I think I’ve given you enough chew on and think about. There will be more NFL talk coming your way. Stay tuned.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
Ode to the Detroit Shock
» Posted on August 3rd, 2010 in WNBA | 3 Comments »
I love the WNBA. The games are so competitive and the women are fierce. Once-upon-a-time I was in great shape. Now I am just in awe (and somewhat envious) of the athletic talent of the players, which make me a perfect candidate for ownership.
Speaking of athletic talent, I want to take a moment and give a shot out to Lindsey Whalen from the Minnesota Lynx and former Golden Gopher. Whalen and I played together at the University of Minnesota. During my senior year she was a stand-out freshman. She is tough, skilled, and the kindest person you’ll ever meet. After starting her career with the Connecticut Sun, she’s back in Minnesota playing in front of the home fans. Right now the Lynx are fourth in the Western Conference standings, so I hope to see her leading the team into the playoffs.
Back to the rest of the WNBA…
I have to say I have been a little sad this season. The Detroit Shock was sold at the end of last season and the team moved to Tulsa Oklahoma. I miss the Detroit Shock. Joni Mitchell said it best, “you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.” 
The deal seemed to happen so fast. First, there were rumors swirling and then the next thing I knew the team was sold. And anyone that knows anything about “the art of a deal” the sale of the Shock didn’t just happen overnight. Between the lawyers, underwriters, accountants, and investors the deal had to be in the works for months.
Now the Tulsa Shock looks nothing like the Detroit Shock. There’s a new coach – Nolan Richardson, former head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks and known for his “40 minutes of hell” defense. Plenette Pierson is playing with the New York Liberty. Katie Smith is playing with the Washington Mystics. Kara Braxton is playing with the Phoenix Mercury.
Deanna “Tweety” Nolan and Cheryl Ford are not playing in the WNBA this season. After four conference championships (2003, 2006, 2007, and 2008) and three WNBA championships (2003, 2006, and 2008) the Shock of yesterday is gone.
I know that selling the Shock was purely a business decision. And sometimes owners have to make the tough call. The details behind the financial state of the Shock were never revealed but I’m guessing the state of the economy had something to do with it. Michigan has been hit hard by the economic down-turn and the impact has been seen with fans and sponsors. So I guess it was inevitable that the WNBA would be impacted. I suppose if I had to choose between the team folding (like what happed with the Sacramento Monarchs) or the team being sold, I would choose the sale.
However, what I wouldn’t choose is a team losing its entire institutional identity. I think that’s the part that stings the most. In 2002, Bill Laimbeer, former Detroit Piston and current Minnesota Timberwolves assistant coach, took over the reigns as the Shock’s head coach. Later Laimbeer added his former teammate, Rick Mahorn, to the coaching staff. And it was clear that together they instituted old school Detroit Bad Boy toughness. The players adopted it and made it their own. In 2003, the team did a 180 and went from the worst team in the league to WNBA champions. The Shock never looked backed.
When I look at this situation I’ve been asking myself several questions.
Years from now will anyone remember that the Shock began in the Motor City? Will anyone remember what the team stood for? Who is responsible for carrying on the identity when a team bought and sold? Is it even possible for the traditions and the character to carry on? As an owner, how do you maintain the old fans while adopting new fans? Is a team’s identity solidified with its
ownership?
These questions don’t have easy answers. And as I move closer toward ownership maybe I’ll figure out the answers along the way. But what I do know is that time and time again the old fans often feel left in the dark. We’ve seen it several times throughout pro sports – in Baltimore, Charlotte, Seattle and now Detroit.
Farewell Detroit Shock. You are missed.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
Pride of the Yankees
» Posted on July 29th, 2010 in MLB | 8 Comments »
In the summer of 2001 I made the trek from Minnesota to New York to work at the world-renowned Bronx Zoo. Each morning I would take the B or D train from Harlem @ 147th street into the Bronx. Two stops away was 161st street, which is the stop for Yankee Stadium. Being from Detroit and a Tigers fan of course, I didn’t naturally follow the Yankees. I didn’t read about the Yankees in the paper and I didn’t follow their schedule. But with the help of the New York fans and traveling tourists I didn’t need to follow the team; all I had to do was pay attention to the people on the subway.
Just by watching the make-up of the crowd on the train I could tell if there was a day game or a night game. I also could tell if the team won or lost by the mood of the travelers. And believe me – New Yorkers can be a bit moody. Sometimes I could figure out what team the Yankees were playing that day. Every now and then there would be a brave out-of-town tourists willing to wear their team’s gear on the NYC subway. And of course I even witnessed Mets and Yankee fans on the train together.
If there is one regret that I have from that summer, I regret never getting off at 161st street. I didn’t get a chance to see a game at the old Yankee Stadium – “The House that Ruth Built.” I suppose I took that stadium for granted, thinking that it would always be there; and that games would always be played there. Now I know that’s not the case anymore. Old Yankee Stadium is now a memory and instead we have “New” Yankee Stadium – “The House that George Built.” Steinbrenner that is. 
George Steinbrenner was the long-time Yankees owner and he passed away July 13th. I would be remiss if I didn’t dedicate a blog posting to Mr. Steinbrenner and acknowledge his contribution to professional sports ownership.
Steinbrenner bought the Yankees in 1973 from CBS for $10 million. He vowed to stay out of the day-to-day business operations of the club and “just stick to building ships.” 37 years and $1.6 billion dollars later, Steinbrenner was the most recognizable owner in all of professional sports. Unless you’re an “ownership junkie” like me, not many people can rattle off the names of pro sports owners. Steinbrenner was a name everyone knew.
He wasn’t just on owner. And in many respects he could have been considered one of the most recognizable faces in major league baseball. Love him. Or hate him. What you can’t say about him is that he wasn’t committed to the Yankees. Over the years Steinbrenner developed a reputation for being a hard-nosed demanding boss. In fact he developed the nickname “The Boss” and the organization was called “The Evil Empire.”
It’s safe to say Steinbrenner’s tenure wasn’t always a bed of roses. He was banned from major league baseball twice. Once for making an illegal campaign contribution and the second time he was banned for paying a gambler for illegal information about a player. He was also known for often having tumultuous relationships with managers and players. In April 1985 he fired Yoggi “it’s déjà vu all over again” Berra 16 games into the season. Steinbrenner was quoted stating that Berra would be the manager for the entire season win or lose. The beloved Yoggi had played in 14 world series’ and won 10. But after Steinbrenner went back on his word, Berra refused to enter Yankee stadium for 14 years until receiving an apology from The Boss.
In spite of his persona what you can’t say about Steinbrenner is that he took himself too seriously. He hosted Saturday Night Live, presented David Letterman’s Top Ten List, and even did a cameo appearance on Seinfeld.
So what did Steinbrenner’s ownership legacy teach me?
I learned the importance of having pride in the organization that you own and work for. And having the willingness to stick your neck out for what you believe in and the organization that you represent. Steinbrenner loved the team so much, that he was quoted saying “I wouldn’t sell the Yankees for anything. Owning the Yankees is like owning the Mona Lisa. You don’t sell it.” There’s no doubt that his pride and his commitment often ruffled some feathers. And it’s safe to say that I probably wouldn’t make all of the same business decisions that he made. But I have tremendous respect for his commitment to the organization and his Pride of the Yankees.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
“Warriors come out to play-yay!”
» Posted on July 15th, 2010 in NBA | 1 Comment »
Where do the Golden State Warriors play?
Growing up in the Midwest I wasn’t familiar with many of the NBA Western Conference teams. And the name “Golden State” used to confuse the heck out of me. Come on you’ve got to give me a pass – I was little. Well just in case any readers out there are still unfamiliar with the Warriors let me give you a quick rundown.
Warriors History…
The Warriors Called Philly their home for 16 years before moving out West prior to the 1962-63 season. In 1962 Warriors legend Wilt Chamberlain poured in an NBA record 100 points, a mark that has never been close to being approached in the 47 years it has stood. Before the start of the 1971-72 season the Warriors moved across the bay to Oakland and officially became the Golden State Warriors. There are currently 17 members of the Warriors organization in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, including Chamberlain, Robert Parish, and Rick Barry who is known for his underhand free throws. The Warriors won two championships on the east and one championship on the west coast in 1974-75.
RUN-TMC
During the 80s and 90s the Warriors saw players come and go. The high scoring trio of point guard Tim Hardaway, guard Mitch Richmond, and forward Chris Mullin (collectively known as “Run-T.M.C.” after the rap group Run-D.M.C). Chris Webber of the Fab Five Fame and former Rookie of the Year. Latrell Sprewell and the chocking then head coach P.J. Carlisemo during a practice. The drafting of Todd Fuller. Fuller who? Just one of the twelve players chosen in the 1996 NBA draft over Kobe Bryant.
The 21st century ushered in more rebuilding and finally a 2007 playoff berth. Subsequent seasons have showed bright spots with the drafting of Stephen Curry who almost lead his mid-major squad to NCAA Final Four.
On another piece of history, today the Golden State Warriors were sold for $450 million, a record price for an NBA franchise. This breaks the previous record of $401 Million paid for the Phoenix Suns in 2004.
What’s interesting about this deal is that the perceived front-runner, Larry Ellison, CEO and Co-Founder of Oracle, did not secure the winning bid. Ellison has publicly stated that he offered a higher bid than the new owners Joe Lacob and Peter Guber. It’s being reported that the difference in bids might have been around $50 million which if that is the case it’s somewhere right around 0.02% of his total wealth. Yes, Ellison is a billionaire and is the sixth richest man in the world.
So what happened?
Well what we do know is that Joe Lacob is no stranger to the NBA. He’s a minority owner of the Boston Celtics, which he will have to sell in order to take a full interest in the Warriors. He’s also a managing Partner with Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, the world’s leading venture capital firm. Lacob is also an active investing partner in KPCB’s Internet company initiative; he led the firm’s investment in AutoTrader.com and Sportsline.
Peter Guber is also a player in the sports and entertainment world. As a producer, among the many films he brought to the screen are Rain Man, Batman, Flashdance, The Color Purple and Midnight Express. He is the owner of Mandalay Sports Entertainment which has become a national sports entertainment provider, owning and/or managing professional baseball franchises, sports marketing and venue management.
Sal Galatioto, President of Galatioto Sports Partners and wizard of sports asset purchase agreements, said that Ellison offered a “marginally higher offer” just hours before the signing. “He was way past the deadline,” Galatioto said. “There was no way I was going to recommend that bid to Chris [Cohan]… Once the shot clock expires, are you allowed to get back on the court and have it count? I don’t think so.”
Even though I’m sure Galatioto knew that Ellison could put his money where his mouth is and follow through with his bid. It’s sounds as though Galatioto didn’t want to jeopardize the existing agreement that was worked out and on the table. You just don’t bid on a professional sports franchise the way you bid on an ebay auction. Even though the rejected bid was higher, it sounds as though it was still too risky to walk away from the ironed out agreement.
Either way without the extra cash Cohan, who purchased the team in 1994 for $119 million, is still making a profit on this deal. Considering the unstable economy, the fact that two NBA franchises recently sold in the $200 million range, and that Forbes has valued the Warriors franchise at $315 million Cohan made out alright.
And Warrior fans are still wondering when their team will be alright…Warriors PLEASE come out to play-yay.
Good Night Sports Fans,
Alana
LeBron has left the building…
» Posted on July 11th, 2010 in NBA | 20 Comments »
I’ve never seen anything like the events of the last several weeks. One player had enough power and influence to make grown men beg and cry. Ok, so I can’t say for sure if anyone actually cried over LeBron’s “LeDecision” or begged him to sign with their team, but there were plenty of theatrics along the way.
I wasn’t surprised by all of the sports journalist’s daily commentary. In fact, listening to all of the theories was actually entertaining at times. The hour long “The Decision” special that was on ESPN was “different,” but I can’t say I was surprised to see ESPN produce such a program. What did surprise me was Dan Gilbert’s, Cavaliers Majority Owner, Letter to Cleveland. Here’s a link to the letter just in case you haven’t read it yet. http://www.nba.com/cavaliers/news/gilbert_letter_100708.html
Typically in the NBA Mavs owner, Mark Cuban, is the “I will always speak my mind, go ahead and fine me owner,” and Dan Gilbert, well I don’t know. Until now he never drew much national media attention. Those of us from the Metro Detroit Area know of him through Quicken Loans fame and other business ventures. And if he was ever quoted in regards to the Cavs he always provided typically NBA owner sound bites. Well, not any more. To say that Dan Gilbert is upset that LeBron is leaving Cleveland is an understatement. He is maaaddddd, and taking names.
I can’t say that I can pick a side on this one. I guess what I really want to know is, whatever happened to “it’s a business?” Isn’t that what owners always tell athletes after they trade them or refuse to renew their contracts? Rather than getting personal or relying on loyalty don’t owners and front office management always seem to fall back on the statement “it’s a business?” So I’m wondering what changed in this situation? This situation got personal – fast. Not only did it get personal it’s almost as if the entire Northeast Ohio region bet their entire economy on one person. Seriously Ohio, did you bet the farm on LeBron in Vegas? I’m not saying you can’t be upset, but have a little pride. Did you forget your state single handedly decided the 2004 election? Hey Cleveland, I thought you said you Rock?
Maybe Cleveland you are a little to blame. Calling a player “The King” and “The Chosen One,” maybe that wasn’t such a good idea. Yes, LeBron is an outstanding and talented player, but you worshipped him and in the end you lost your identity. My mom always taught me that it’s ok to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them. It looks like LeDecision taught us all that it has to be about the name on the front of the jersey – not the back.
Good night sports fans,
Alana
I Want To Be An Owner…
» Posted on June 3rd, 2010 in Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
Finally, the day has come that I am taking my blog live. It has been a labor of love the past several months. For those of you that don’t know I am on a quest to become an owner of a professional sports franchise (See My Story in About Alana for the background details). I would love to be an owner in the NBA, WNBA, NFL, or MLB. Essentially, I want to combine my entrepreneurial spirit along with my love of sports. I decided that until I reach my goal I will blog about it. This blog will allow me to keep my goal and dream alive. As long as www.iwanttobeanowner.com is live, my dream will stay alive right along with it. 
Also, I really enjoy talking about sports, and I think I have a unique perspective that others will enjoy reading about. I plan to blog about current events - especially as it relates to ownership/management. I did a little a blog research before starting mine and I found that there are plenty of sites out there that discuss the athletes, but I have yet to come across any sites that specifically digest sports ownership. I will discuss decisions that owners have made, should make, or will make. And I will add my two cents by describing what I would do or would have done if I was in their position. I also hope to have a few interviews here and there featuring current owners or front-office management (My interview wish list will be coming soon). Last but not least, some of the best blogs out there have reader participation. So please leave comments and tell me what you think – there’s no me without you.
A couple of more things before I go…I want to thank several special people that made this blog possible. My family has been very supportive along the way – especially Ed, my big bro. When I first told him that I wanted to blog about sports ownership he gave me the two thumbs up. While I hoped that he would ghost write it for me, for those of you that don’t know he’s an amazing writer. He did, however, suggest the title. I have to admit I wasn’t sold on it at first. But after watching a television interview featuring Bob Beaudine, Sports & Entertainment Search Executive and author of The Power of Who, it became clear to me that this was the perfect title. I realized that I shouldn’t feel the need to disguise what I want, sugar coat it, or hope that others will get what I am trying to say without me really saying it. Ask for what you want! In the end this was the one and only title to select.
Another special thank you goes to my web designer Nicki from In the Designs. Nicki is an up-and-coming designer and is extremely talented. Her prices are very reasonable and the finish product is amazing. I am soooo glad that I decided to hire In the Designs to put this all together.
So without further ado I present to you….. I Want To Be An Owner.
Game time!
Alana
