Yesterday, news surfaced that Virginia Beach may be trying to attract the NBA's Sacramento Kings, with an arena proposal on the slate for next Tuesday's city council meeting. Various reports suggested that it was premature to consider Virginia Beach a real possibility for the Kings, but it appears the city is one of many that could be in play for the franchise. A few more links on the subject have trickled in today, so let's round them up right here:
- Tony Bizjak and Sam Stanton of the Sacramento Bee provide a nice round-up of yesterday's rumors, which includes quotes from multiple members of the Sacramento city council. Councilman Jay Schenirer said he'd like the Maloofs to be more upfront about their intentions, while Rob Fong noted that "it seems pretty obvious that the Kings aren't that interested in staying in Sacramento."
- At Sactown Royalty, Tom Ziller argues that it would be pretty simple for the Maloofs to kill the Virginia Beach rumor, since the area is "nowhere near ready" for an NBA franchise.
- The Kings are exploring their options, but Virginia Beach is no further along than any other options being considered, sources tell Steve Kyler of HoopsWorld.
- Several team executives that spoke to Sam Amico of FOX Sports Ohio (Sulia link) think the NBA will eventually consist of more small-market franchises, since it can be beneficial to be the "only show in town." Amico notes that it hasn't worked for Sacramento, but that Virginia Beach shouldn't be immediately ruled out.