Despite the lockout, the NBA is thriving this season and all is well in the league according to David Stern in his annual All-Star press conference, which aired on NBA TV. A few notes from the press conference:
- Regarding any possible contribution the Maloofs, owners of the Sacramento Kings, would make towards a new NBA arena in Sacramento, David Stern simply replied, "life is a negotiation." Dale Kasler of the Sacramento Bee reports the city is looking for the Maloofs to pay $70-90MM on the proposed arena. A deadline to reach an agreement is set for March 1st.
- While the NBA has not pledged any help towards keeping the Kings in Sacramento, Stern said the NBA is in discussion with one group to purchase the New Orleans Hornets and has a second group lined in case those discussions fall through.
- While relocation remains a possibility for cities to acquire NBA teams, Stern said the NBA has no plans to expand in America. He did not, however, shoot down the possibility of expanding into Europe. Though not anytime in the immediate future.
- The best way to get an NBA team? Having a new NBA arena of course.
- Stern on Jeremy Lin: "I think it's great for the league and great for Jeremy, and my guess is that in the just concluded D-League All-Star Game, there were more scouts there than ever in the history of that game. And we're proud of the D League, and we're actually proud of the NBA system, as well."
- David Stern will not be in the NBA forever — he wants Adam Silver to take his place.
The NBA needs to CONTRACT!