Jordan agrees to buy Bobcats

[King Taharqa]

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—Michael Jordan has struck a deal to buy controlling interest of the Charlotte Bobcats, taking charge of the money-losing team in his home state.

Traci Blunt, a spokeswoman for owner Bob Johnson, told The Associated Press that Jordan was able to put together an ownership group late Friday to buy the team he has been a part-owner of since 2006. Jordan has been running the team's basketball operations.

The purchase price was not immediately available.

Former Houston Rockets executive George Postolos also bid on the Bobcats. The NBA's owners still must approve the purchase.

The deal will end Johnson's largely unsuccessful stint as the first black majority owner of a major professional sports team.

http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_14482184

[WarioVsMooChicken]

Beat me to it. I rushed here to get a certain 100 post thread =(

[GOBOBCATS24]

Now we can focus solely on basketball. I just saw it on the bottom line but I barely caught it so i had to wait until it came by again. Now we don't have to worry about the organization getting wiped clean. Thank God

[King Taharqa]

http://obsessedwithsports.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/michael-jordan-bobcats.jpg

[WarioVsMooChicken]

I am so glad this is finally over

[BobcatsAllDay]

Hopefully this means LB will be here for one more run. If that's the case thanks MJ. Now on to this very, very, very important playoff run.

[Walt Cronkite]

Sounds like Postolos was the change we needed: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/02/26/1276148/the-other-would-be-bobcat.html

[Fred Williamson]

So we are going to keep this front office? :facepalm:

[GOBOBCATS24]

Postolos would not have been able to do here what he did in Houston because 98% of that was because they drafted Yao Ming. Their fanbase was Houston and China. That is why they gained so much value. He was planning to basically wipe out everything this organization is built on and start over with all new people. I am a season ticket holder and I enjoy knowing who everyone is. If I had to start over with that my experience would be hindered. Go MJ

[CatNation]

I kinda wanted Postolos just for the change.

What has MJ done to inspire confidence in anyone?

[Fred Williamson]

Postolos would not have been able to do here what he did in Houston because 98% of that was because they drafted Yao Ming. Their fanbase was Houston and China. That is why they gained so much value. He was planning to basically wipe out everything this organization is built on and start over with all new people. I am a season ticket holder and I enjoy knowing who everyone is. If I had to start over with that my experience would be hindered. Go MJ
What the hell are you talking about?

Postolos was the one who put the best front office in the league together, headed by Daryl Morey. Just look at their drafting/trading history and then tell me one more time that they "suck".

- Traded some euro scrub for Luis Scola
- Signed Chuck Hayes (undrafted)
- Drafted Carl Landry (2nd round pick
-Drafted Aaron Brooks (late 1st)
- Drafted Chase Budinger (2nd round pick)
- Got Kyle Lowey for nothing
- Robbed the Knicks BIG TIME
- Hired JvG
- Hired Rick Adelman
and so on...

And what has our front office done?

- wasted countless 1st round draft picks
- give away draft picks
- make retarded panic moves

[CatNation]

I think RC Buford has something to say about your "best GM" comment

[TattoodCats4life]

Now guys, before we talk about how much MJ has done, lets not forget he DID put on a uniform (with a piece of tape over the addidas logo) and fake praticing with the guys for the camera :)

[Fred Williamson]

I think RC Buford has something to say about your "best GM" comment

come on cat, you know what I mean...

[GOBOBCATS24]

I'm talking about profitability not front office buildability

[Walt Cronkite]

Long live the Air Bobcats!

[Proudiddy]

I'm really happy that MJ got it, b/c it's MJ and we at least know we have stability in the front office and aren't going into "rebuilding" mode with a team that has yet to make a playoffs.

On the other hand, I'm anxious to see if this will rejuvenate MJ's involvement in the team b/c now it IS his and I'm sure he'll be just as competitive as if he was playing.

Man, I really hope he gets some guys around him that market our team right and fix the TV deals, etc.

And I also kind of hope he changes the our name/mascot... Event though they're my team through thick and thin, I still think it's kind of corny, lol.

[Toocool]

I was kind of uncertain where this will go. I just hope Bobcats can play better knowing the same management will be there.

[Fred Williamson]

I'm talking about profitability not front office buildability

You said Postolos "sucks", I tell you that this man knows his business, while MJ on the other hand, well,... was does he have accomplished in the past years?

[TheBeagle]

Great to hear! A win last night! A resolution to the sale hysteria! As an outsider, I just don't think Postolos would've won over many (if any) Charlotteans that are NBA-phobic than MJ has the ability to.....not to mention Postolos' "wrecking ball" mentality. It could be a disaster, but I'm really really confident about how things will go with MJ in charge officially.

Bottom line is, yeah, at least the concentration will be on the court for the rest of the season now that this is through.

[westbrook08]

I know some of you guys wanted postolos,but honestly,I think michael jordan owning the bobcats is the probably the best thing that could ever happen to basketball in charlotte.First of all,mike will spend whatever it takes to win.One the main problems we had when the hornets were here was we were not re-signing any of our own free agents.The bobcats have been doing that for the last several years,and for everyone who called bob johnson cheap,he may have been on the marketing side,but most people behind the scenes have said that it was mike in his ear telling him he had to spend the money to put a good product on the floor before the franchise could go anywhere positive.Secondly,mike an an owner I think will give us a completely different visibility in the community and with the national media,than when he was just a part of it.I mean,david stern acts like he wants to get on his knees everytime mike's name is mentioned around him.I think this will give us more opportunities nationally.And finally,mike has shown that he can put some good people in place.Rod higgins is looking better and better all the time and also seems to able to save larry brown from himself.That's why we haven't done either one of the stupid tj ford trades that larry seemed to be pushing the last 2 years.I think the combination of these guys working together will not only help us when larry is here,but will also help to line up a proper successor before he leaves.And one last point.I know postolos seems to have his act together and surround himself with good people,but he is part of a management group,and unlike michael,who is from NC and has every incentive to keep this team here,there is no guarantee that the postolos group would not just try to turn a profit and sell the team to someone else who would move it.I remember a guy named ray woolridge who swore up and down how committed he was to charlotte and helping the team grow here,and as soon as the ink was dry on his ownership stake,he was the driving the bus to get shinn to move the hornets.Just something to think about.

[ohara831]

Happy for MJ, and hope he becomes a lot more involved in the public. I hope he does make a few changes to bring the input of a different set of eyes. Our FO has been bad at certain things, and hopefully his ownership and a couple more knowledgable folks in the FO will help turn things around financially for this team.

[spectre]

:funkybanana:

GREAT news to wake up to!!!!!!!!!!

[ziggy]

:funkybanana:

GREAT news to wake up to!!!!!!!!!!

I 100% agree to that spectre!

for those of you that were up at 3:00am posting away, when do you guys sleep? :biggrin:

[Shrimpy_Jackson]

Woo hoo! I'm just glad it's all over and done with. I'd have been happy with either, but prefer Jordan for the continuity factor. However I am one of those who holding out hope we may one day change the name. Never have liked Bobcats because it's less cool to say than Heat or the Celtic or Rockets or anything. Bobcats just feels too clunky when I'm telling my friends about them.

[ammofan]

I woke up and my sister told me "MJ is the new owner of the bobcats"....my reaction "....o god......"

LOl, I like MJ and all but I really wanted Postolos. I think Jordan will be good ut its just diappointing that we are not going to get a completley new staff

[Zoolander]

I think it's good and bad. Good that we have someone who understands the community, but bad based on our past drafting history under MJ. I mean, that has to get better if we expect to compete in the future.

Also, I'd like to see some better marketing of the team and a better tv deal. I live in SC and I don't get the Cats on TV. The only way I see the team is by scavenging the net for a stream. I was able to get them on radio when that was on FM 107.1, but now with 610 the Fan, I can't even get them if I'm streaming it online.... that has to change if they want to fill those seats....

[BRNC]

I'm glad it is resolved...I certainly understand the folk pulling for Postolos...but I was not looking forward to a 3-4 year re-build process (although if it happened it happened)...

MJ has it...and (for me) it is a good move if he (and LB) deliver on their "plan"...make the play-offs this year...and I hope (going forward) the FO does a better job...

[catsandheels]

Great news to hear im so glad tht mj got the team i think he can turn this team around. Does it say anywhere who is in his team of owners? Does bj still own anypart of the cats?

[ND22]

I think Postolos was the safer pick in the long run, but that doesn't mean MJ won't be good long term either. He obviously has a connection to this team or he wouldn't have made the offer, and if he can surround himself with some good people then I believe he can do a good job. It could be worse guys, we could have someone like Al Davis.

[Slam]

I'm glad it is resolved...
I agree. Best thing to come out of this is that there wont be a freeze on roster moves etc because the ownership thing was in limbo.

Happy to put it behind us and move forward.

And to all the guys who think we are all of a sudden going to change our name/colours etc: You're kidding - right?

[Muttley]

And to all the guys who think we are all of a sudden going to change our name/colours etc: You're kidding - right?
I don't think they are kidding, but some of the dumbest stuff I've heard is about how the name should be changed.

[Weezy21]

I woke up and my sister told me "MJ is the new owner of the bobcats"....my reaction "....o god......"

LOl, I like MJ and all but I really wanted Postolos. I think Jordan will be good ut its just diappointing that we are not going to get a completley new staff

im with u...i just think postolos would bring more professionalism an dedication to this organization, while jordan is all about bringing his friends in...jordan might b good for the short term but i honestly think postolos would have been GREAT for the long term

hope im wrong tho

[jiff65]

This means stability for us. No more speculation about the team moving. No more questions about a long-term commitment to winning and the city. And we finally have an owner connected to the area. Hopefully the team will continue to build momentum and the fan base will grow.

As for the negative nay-sayers about the arena and team that you see posting on the Observer articles, click on their names/avatars and you'll see that most of those folks frequently post some of the craziest, mean-spirited things you've ever seen. Hopefully the public and Bobcats realize those folks do not represent the mainstream.

I hate it that I couldn't watch the Memphis game last night on TV. It was kind of infuriating to see the UNC women's team on FSNHD instead of the Cats. No offense to the UNC women's team, but come on, really? Something needs to be done about our TV broadcasts and radio. Every game should be televised, they should be shown on a consistent HD channel, and we should be able to hear post-game analysis on the way home from each game at the Cable Box. Those are pretty meager and reasonable fan expectations.

Go Cats!

[Muttley]

im with u...i just think postolos would bring more professionalism an dedication to this organization, while jordan is all about bringing his friends in...jordan might b good for the short term but i honestly think postolos would have been GREAT for the long term

hope im wrong tho
I have similar thoughts on the long term/short term prospects of the potential owners that you have. What gives me hope that MJ will be successful is his personality. In particular, his HOF speech comes to mind in showing that telling him he can't do something is the best way to insure that he does that very thing. It worked well for him as a player, and I am hoping that he finally has translated that winner's mentality to team management.
Thus far, he's hired his friends to work for him and it hasn't been perfect. However, he's not one to accept repeated failure from anyone, and I don't think he would accept it from his friends. There almost certainly will be some changes made, though not as many as if Postolos were in charge.
I also feel as though this means that LB will have even more say in player moves. First thing MJ needs to do though is hire some better scouts and other talent-evaluators.

[BRNC]

First thing MJ needs to do though is hire some better scouts and other talent-evaluators.


Muttley...I'm going to try and make a concerted effort (from now on) not to dwell on our past mistakes....with that said...

Our scouts (and MJ himself) wanted to draft Lopez...LB talked him/them out of it...I'm fine with our scouts...not sure they are listened to...I just think better decisions all-around (short term/long term) need to be made...I hope they are...

...what I mean is...I think D. Brown was a bargain...at least in my book...I just wish the guy would be developed...I think he is a real talent...

[polarcat]

i don't know a lot about postolos except for a few articles here and there, but i think this move is a solid short term move. it resolves a problem that has been a dark cloud since johnson mentioned the potential sale and it keeps lb, higgins and the nike/north carolina family intact for the immediate future. i would've liked postolos in the long term though and the front office staff, in my opinion needs a little facelift....especially in the drafting and development department which postolos would've brought. i didn't like the thought of having our fourth coach in 7 seasons and the potential to lose our core, tt, and rebuild with little ammo in the drafting department if postolos took over. i guess it could be worse than having mj and at least we get to see this current team for a few years which is for the most part a solid playoff contributor.

bottom line, bob johnson is out and we can now focus on the present which is a successful playoff run.

[CatNation]

does anyone know if Nelly is still part owner? :g:

[Muttley]

Muttley...I'm going to try and make a concerted effort (from now on) not to dwell on our past mistakes....with that said...

Our scouts (and MJ himself) wanted to draft Lopez...LB talked him/them out of it...I'm fine with our scouts...not sure they are listened to...I just think better decisions all-around (short term/long term) need to be made...I hope they are...

...what I mean is...I think D. Brown was a bargain...at least in my book...I just wish the guy would be developed...I think he is a real talent...
Fair enough, if the scouts' evaluations just aren't being heeded, then that's the problem. Assuredly, this team has made some good player moves. I just hope that the future brings a favorable good move to bad move ratio.

[dnbman]

Muttley...I'm going to try and make a concerted effort (from now on) not to dwell on our past mistakes....with that said...

Our scouts (and MJ himself) wanted to draft Lopez...LB talked him/them out of it...I'm fine with our scouts...not sure they are listened to...I just think better decisions all-around (short term/long term) need to be made...I hope they are...

...what I mean is...I think D. Brown was a bargain...at least in my book...I just wish the guy would be developed...I think he is a real talent...

I also think that draft was about safety. We had a big question mark in the minds of many at pg. We didn't know how Lopez would have played with Okafor. Augustin was a safe pick, if not a good pick.

Hopefully, moving forward, we will be drafting the best player since we're relatively good at most positions. At least, we don't have the glaring holes and question marks we've had in past drafts. We actually have a legitimate NBA player for each position now.

[BRNC]

I also think that draft was about safety. We had a big question mark in the minds of many at pg. We didn't know how Lopez would have played with Okafor. Augustin was a safe pick, if not a good pick.

Hopefully, moving forward, we will be drafting the best player since we're relatively good at most positions. At least, we don't have the glaring holes and question marks we've had in past drafts. We actually have a legitimate NBA player for each position now.

dnb...I agree with you...I feel we "now" have the talent...maybe it will make the future drafts easier...at least I hope it does...

[dnbman]

dnb...I agree with you...I feel we "now" have the talent...maybe it will make the future drafts easier...at least I hope it does...

I think so. Ideally, we'd get a solid young center, but we'd be o.k. if we didn't draft one. However, in previous drafts, we had huge holes to fill.

We have a lot of pieces now; we just have to continue making trades and developing talent so that we get the most out of our roster.

[PouncingBobcat]

I kinda wanted Postolos just for the change.

What has MJ done to inspire confidence in anyone?

I agree that MJ hasn't done much in the front office since he began with Kwame Brown and the Wizards. Nonetheless, I'm very excited he is taking over the team.

Jordan HATES losing and now that he is the primary individual responsible for this teams success he will rise to the occasion. He must figure a way to expand the fan base throughout the state and South Carolina. This includes making games available on TV throughout NC. I also feel he must do something this off season to get one more major star to go alongside Jackson and Wallace.

Just a few thoughts, but extremely glad to see the best basketball player to lace up sneakers taking over the team.

[ALong13]

I think one thing you guys are forgetting about the Augustin pick is that Coach Brown wanted Augustin, not MJ. MJ wanted Brook Lopez, the pick we should have taken...Imagine if we'd have Felton, Jax, Crash, Diaw/Thomas, and Lopez...now that would be a great line-up...

I'm excited about this, and I hope this means the team starts playing well as they now should know that Coach Brown will be back for another year. Overall I'm glad to have MJ as our coach. I was worried Postolopos would redo the team and could trade players he didn't really know like Crash and Jax. I hope to see both of those players hear for the long-term. I also hope to see Jordan open his wallet and re-sign Thomas and Felton next year.

[teej]

Absolutely great news. MJ has improved a ton since he got here as far as personnel, and most of the bad moves we've had (Gana, DJ, Vladi, even AmMo and obviously McMay) were more coaches than him. He's letting Rod do his GM work, and even though Rod is a friend like Weezy said, Rod already had been an effective GM in Golden State. And he hired a "friend" in Sam Vincent, realized his mistake, and canned him. LB is a friend, but a proven one.

I'd love to see the list of investors, and now I really do think we can go over the tax to keep Ray and T-Time.

Haven't seen these posted:




Bobcats Sports and Entertainment statement on Michael Jordan
Robert L. Johnson, the majority owner of Bobcats Sports and Entertainment today announced that he has signed a definitive agreement to sell majority interest of Bobcats Sports and Entertainment to Michael Jordan and MJ Basketball Holdings, LLC. The deal is subject to NBA approval. Further details of the sale will be provided by the NBA.
NBA Commissioner David Stern statement on Michael Jordan
"We have been anticipating an agreement for transfer of a majority interest in the Bobcats and are pleased it has occurred. Bob Johnson brought the excitement of the NBA back to Charlotte and I am certain that as Michael Jordan returns to his home state as the principal owner of the Bobcats the team will continue its growth as a success on the court, as a business success and as a valued community asset. We expect the expedited approval process to be completed by the end of next month."

Statement from former Houston Rockets president George Postolos on Bob Johnson choosing to sell the Charlotte Bobcats to Michael Jordan:
"I remain committed to becoming an NBA owner, and I’m glad that Michael will continue to bring his talent to the sport and the league.''

[dnbman]

I think one thing you guys are forgetting about the Augustin pick is that Coach Brown wanted Augustin, not MJ.

No, that's what I was getting across. BROWN made the safe pick. The overall point is that we should have some confidence in our organization. They have managed to put together an exciting and competitive team without ever sacrificing a season to get a higher pick. Granted, we've made some bad picks, but I think we'll be o.k. in the long haul.

[BRNC]

I feel a heck of a lot better with Rod (leading the draft) than I ever felt about Bernie...I'd like to see Rod allowed to continue what he started from the last draft...not great (but neither were our pick positions) but solid IMO...

The organization (at some point soon I hope) has to make a commitment to develop our picks...Lexy getting "sorely needed" (NBADL) court time was a good decision...I'm just not happy with the way Hendo and UPS are being (not much IMO) developed...I'd like to see that change...

[polarcat]

agree 110% with ya brnc. we used to be one of the youngest teams with no vets to get us over the hump. we are a balanced team now, but one that leans more on vets than youth and if we don't nip this benching of the youth and giving up future 1sts, it will eventually catch up.

also, with the lopez v. dj argument....it's gotta get put to rest soon. it's the chris paul vs. felts/fatboy argument v. 2.0. cry all you want about it, but with okafor on that roster and felton's lack of maturation, dj was the safe pick. i personally hate the chris paul situation (and actually the morrison over roy pick, though i know roy refused to come here so i'm not that mad) more than the augustin pick, but have put it to rest because it's in the past. i do agree that our front office scares me on draft night and have little confidence in their ability to make solid draft decisions, but whatever. i like our current roster outside of our center position and salary dead weight, but that is for 2010-11 to get worked out.

[dnbman]

also, with the lopez v. dj argument....it's gotta get put to rest soon.

I agree completely with that. The only reason I brought it up was to address the fact that the Jordan run management isn't so bad. I've felt pretty good about most of what they've done, even if we haven't had any "clear winner" type trades. Then again, those are few and far between.

[ReesieNCPantherCatfan1]

Good luck Mike, good riddance Bob. I hope he learns from BJ's mistakes and is more hands on, and visible than he previously was. I am also happy that it will mean LB will be here a little longer.

[SWedd523]

even Kwame Brown wasn't that bad of a pick. He showed steady improvement in his game and by his third year he was averaging 11 and 8 with promise to get even better. (He wouuld have been a college Junior, so not that bad) He eventually butted heads with Gil Arenas and it seemed to really shake his confidence.

When he was traded to the Lakers, and after Mihm went down, he was named starter and upped his averages to 12 and 9. He then started (and played well) in the playoffs that year. Phil even went as far as to name him the starter for the next year, above Mihm and Bynum.

He ended up being hurt for the next two years and since then hasn't done anything special. So yeah, 12/9 isn't what you'd expect from a number 1 pick, but it wasn't horrible either. (Mek is currently averaging 11/9)


I think people were just really looking for anything they could find to bash Jordan since they certainly couldn't make any comments about his time as a player. So, they latched on to Brown and his extremely high expectations and used him as a means to attack Jordan (which I think could have had something to do with Brown's underachievement).


And for that matter, wasn't Brown pretty much the "consensus" number 1 in that draft anyway? Looking back, the 01 draft didn't really produce much hyped American talent outside of Joe Johnson. (who went 10th) It did have good international talent, but at that time, people didn't have much faith in EURO players so they were undervalued. (Pau-3, Parker-28, and Okur-38)

Tyson Chandler was 2nd, Eddy Curry 4th, Eddie Griffin 7th, Diop 8th, Rodney White 9th, Kendrick Brown 11th, Vlad 12th, Steven Hunter 15th were all taken in the top 15!

[Marvel]

MJ= Ham Biscuit,Kwame Brown,Adam Morrison:facepalm:

[Marvel]

even Kwame Brown wasn't that bad of a pick. He showed steady improvement in his game and by his third year he was averaging 11 and 8 with promise to get even better. (He wouuld have been a college Junior, so not that bad) He eventually butted heads with Gil Arenas and it seemed to really shake his confidence.

When he was traded to the Lakers, and after Mihm went down, he was named starter and upped his averages to 12 and 9. He then started (and played well) in the playoffs that year. Phil even went as far as to name him the starter for the next year, above Mihm and Bynum.

He ended up being hurt for the next two years and since then hasn't done anything special. So yeah, 12/9 isn't what you'd expect from a number 1 pick, but it wasn't horrible either. (Mek is currently averaging 11/9)


I think people were just really looking for anything they could find to bash Jordan since they certainly couldn't make any comments about his time as a player. So, they latched on to Brown and his extremely high expectations and used him as a means to attack Jordan (which I think could have had something to do with Brown's underachievement).


And for that matter, wasn't Brown pretty much the "consensus" number 1 in that draft anyway? Looking back, the 01 draft didn't really produce much hyped American talent outside of Joe Johnson. (who went 10th) It did have good international talent, but at that time, people didn't have much faith in EURO players so they were undervalued. (Pau-3, Parker-28, and Okur-38)

Tyson Chandler was 2nd, Eddy Curry 4th, Eddie Griffin 7th, Diop 8th, Rodney White 9th, Kendrick Brown 11th, Vlad 12th, Steven Hunter 15th were all taken in the top 15!


Come on "that bad of a pick" as a MJ fan i can understand your sentimental connection there but Kwame as a 1st pick, is a BUST ain't no 2 ways about it

[dnbman]

Come on "that bad of a pick" as a MJ fan i can understand your sentimental connection there but Kwame as a 1st pick, is a BUST ain't no 2 ways about it

It doesn't have anything to do with whether the guy is now worth a #1 pick. Rather, as Swedd and others have pointed out, Kwame was the near consensus #1 pick. The league went gaga over the prep bigs that year. So, Jordan didn't make a terrible decision so much as go with the popular opinion. Same with Morrison. Some people were saying he had strong bust potential, but most people still had him in the top 7, some even arguing he was the first. Honestly, I think that was the most regrettable decision that Jordan made, but overall, I feel o.k. about his decision making. He took a chance on Ham Biscuit and immediately corrected at the end of the season.

I think the other guy (Postolos?) might have been better in the future, but I wasn't ready to rebuild the team and the organization in the process.

[Marvel]

It doesn't have anything to do with whether the guy is now worth a #1 pick. Rather, as Swedd and others have pointed out, Kwame was the near consensus #1 pick. The league went gaga over the prep bigs that year. So, Jordan didn't make a terrible decision so much as go with the popular opinion. Same with Morrison. Some people were saying he had strong bust potential, but most people still had him in the top 7, some even arguing he was the first. Honestly, I think that was the most regrettable decision that Jordan made, but overall, I feel o.k. about his decision making. He took a chance on Ham Biscuit and immediately corrected at the end of the season.

I think the other guy (Postolos?) might have been better in the future, but I wasn't ready to rebuild the team and the organization in the process.


Ok so this helps MJ...............he made bad decisions,decided to go with the "popular opinion" whatever, will he make the same mistakes in the future........... let's all pray he doesn't

[ammofan]

MJ= Ham Biscuit,Kwame Brown,Adam Morrison:facepalm:

Also = Larry Brown, Stephen Jackson and a team that is looking at its first playoff appearance.

[tondi]

So when the concensus #1 player in the draft turns out to be a dud it is the guys fault who picked him? Now if MJ had reached for Brown that would be a more accurate statement but since pretty much every other GM would have picked Brown also it seems silly to blame MJ for being unlucky enough to have the #1 pick that year.

[SWedd523]

So when the concensus #1 player in the draft turns out to be a dud it is the guys fault who picked him? Now if MJ had reached for Brown that would be a more accurate statement but since pretty much every other GM would have picked Brown also it seems silly to blame MJ for being unlucky enough to have the #1 pick that year.

Exactly what I was about to type. Had almost any other GM been in the same position, they would've taken Kwame. But of course, just because it was MJ, he'll forever be known as "the stupid exec. who took Kwame" while EVERY OTHER exec. takes a huge sigh of relief that they weren't in his position

[Slam]

I know that it is human nature, but man oh man I find it annoying.

Why do some people OBSESS with the bad decisions that a guy like MJ might or might not have made?

People tend to harp on and on and on about the bad things he has done - yet all they can come up with is generally the Ammo pick and the Kwame pick and the Vincent hiring. So three things.

How many right decisions do you think he might have made during that time? A thousand? A couple of thousand? Yet people tend to gloss over the good and choose to focus only on the bad - even though there is no doubt he has made a LOT more positive moves than bad ones. Three bad moves in years and years at the executive level. Not a bad strike rate if you ask me.

I guess it's just easier to hate than it is to respect?

[teej]

I know that it is human nature, but man oh man I find it annoying.

Why do some people OBSESS with the bad decisions that a guy like MJ might or might not have made?

People tend to harp on and on and on about the bad things he has done - yet all they can come up with is generally the Ammo pick and the Kwame pick and the Vincent hiring. So three things.

How many right decisions do you think he might have made during that time? A thousand? A couple of thousand? Yet people tend to gloss over the good and choose to focus only on the bad - even though there is no doubt he has made a LOT more positive moves than bad ones. Three bad moves in years and years at the executive level. Not a bad strike rate if you ask me.

I guess it's just easier to hate than it is to respect?

Co-sign 100%

Especially that last sentence...;)

[King Taharqa]

I guess it's just easier to hate than it is to respect?

Charlotte is a very unique town. Its a bland banking city. Very religious, very straight laced atmosphere. Bottom line, people never trusted Bob and always looked for reasons to dislike him even though he was trying his hardest to get this thing to work. Mike & Bob move to the beat of their own drum, and that rubs alot of people locally the wrong way. This is a community that is more rabid about "conformity" and "control" than it is "winning" (which is why no pro sports team has ever won in Charlotte). The complaints lobbied at Bob & Mike are more public relations oriented than actually basketball related. The Observer routinely prints articles telling Mike & Bob how to do their job and are always written in a judgemental paternalistic tone. I cant recall the onslaught of critique lobbied towards other local sports owners Richardson or Shinn no matter how many mistakes they made or how many 1-15 seasons that were put up. The Hornets didnt make the playoffs until year 5, but people were patient with their first 18 win seasons, attended every game and were willing to trust local product Shinn. The Bobcats have never been afforded that luxury. I hope with MJ taking over that will change, but knowing Charlotte and how close minded people can be here, it wont be long before the press, some of the fans, and haters are calling for Mike to sell.

[King Taharqa]

And so it begins...

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/02/27/1278597/note-to-jordan-buy-house-spend.html

The first of what is to be many "opinion" pieces on how Mike should do his job. This writer explains for the Bobcats to be successful he "needs to buy a house in Mecklenburg county" to prove he's commited to us. LOL. Nevermind the fact he and his friends have 100's of millions of dollars invested into this team. Again, this is just a small example of a uppity Charlottean who craves some sort of control over decisions MJ makes because they dont trust him and are not willing to be patient. The writer stresses that Mike must conform if he is to earn the support of Charlotte, despite the Bobcats being the only pro team that represents the city. This particular writer has written article after article over the past 6 years encouraging Charlotteans to "distrust" the Bobcats and to not support them. This same writer maintains a close relationship with the Shinn family and is still sympathetic to the Hornets organization despite them packing up and leaving Charlotte almost 10 years ago. Which IMO makes it a total conflict of interest they're allowed to do smear pieces on Bobcats ownership. If the Bobcats ever want to turn the corner and we as fans want this team to get more respect locally, people are gonna have to start holding the local media accountable for their piss poor coverage of the team and for wanting to turn the Bobcats discussion into a political one since their b-ball knowledge is greatly lacking.

[spectre]

King that type of thinking never ceases to amaze me.

They act like it's a privilege for the NBA to have a team in their town and don't seem to recognize that it's the other way around.

[King Taharqa]

King that type of thinking never ceases to amaze me.

They act like it's a privilege for the NBA to have a team in their town and don't seem to recognize that it's the other way around.

I would tell those folks to talk to the people of Seattle and see how they feel right now. Their situation is eerily similar to what went down here. Their owner lobbied for a more profitable arena, was repeatedly turned down, and people stopped going to the games. When the owner let it be known he would sell, people took for granted that the team would remain in Seattle. Well, unfortunately he stabbed the city in the back and sold the team to an ownership group he KNEW would move the team away. The city tried to sue the league to keep the Sonics there and failed. Im sure they would absolutely KILL to get another franchise in 3 years like did. Truth is, they wont, and Seattle's basketball legacy is GONE forever. I admire the fact that Bob always let it be known once he decided to sell that the only requirement of the buyer is that the team MUST remain in Charlotte. That goes in stark contrast to the local media telling us how much "Bob doesnt care about us or Charlotte". We should feel very fortunate to be able to get another team so quickly here and always be cognizant of the fact there are tons of second tier cities (St. Louis, Norfolk, Tampa, etc) that would love to have an NBA franchise to boost their economy with.

[BRNC]

NBA site has an "open letter" to MJ from NBA writer Shaun Powell...not a bad read...other interesting thing is an "embedded video interview" (about 8:26 minutes) by the NBA broadcast team with Rick Bonnell...worth a view...

http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/shaun_powell/02/27/jordan.letter/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt1

[teej]

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/02/27/1278595/for-this-to-work-mj-must-go-all.html

Fowler seems rather decent today...

My dad, who doesn't really like MJ and is sick of the the modern NBA, is thrilled with this. Hopefully the rest of the Carolinas feels the same way.

[Toocool]

I guess all we really can do is pray that Jordan does fully commit to the Bobcats. It would such if his investment group simply turn into another BJ.

[jiff65]

My wife and I are from Charlotte. I lived in DC for about 3.5 years while I was in law school. Living there gave me some perspective on my hometown. I think our southern, textile, and particularly religious historical background does make us crave conformity and the approval of others (world class city). We have historically lacked a culture of critical thinking and creativity here. I live in a banker's neighborhood full of boxes (houses) that are nearly identical. They are owned by people who drive nearly identical cars and who have nearly identical numbers of children who attend the same two private schools. With the Hornets, attending games was a way for these folks to be seen and a way to participate in something other people perceived as prestigious - we had all joined the NBA club as a city.

I had hoped we had all moved on and matured from the Hornets days. That remains to be seen and the Bobcats are something of a test of the city's maturation.

When Mr. Johnson moved the team in here the way he did, and did not play the right kind of homage to the kind folks at the newspaper and to Charlotteans in general, they turned away. Anyone that thinks the NBA is not good for this town is not thinking clearly. The people who are constantly criticizing the Bobcats because the arena was taxpayer funded, or who fervently oppose rapid transit, and other forward-thinking, economic infra-structure growing investments in this city, don't deserve much of an audience. IMHO they represent a very small and narrow, but loud, minority view in this town. I hope people will come around on the Bobcats. Who cares where Jordan lives, all we should care about is if the team is properly run and has a reasonable chance at success. I don't get Tom Sorenson's (usually off-the-hip and poorly researched) point of view at all and have wondered why the paper has kept him on as long as it has. Go Cats!

[BRNC]

Jiff...I've wondered at times if envy does not rear an ugly head in this...MJ does what he does and how he chooses...anyone that feels they "must conform" (banking and law always come to my mind from friends I have in those businesses) to succeed don't feel envious for those that don't have to conform to be successful...:g:

[kickazzz2000]

Jiff...I've wondered at times if envy does not rear an ugly head in this...MJ does what he does and how he chooses...anyone that feels they "must conform" (banking and law always come to my mind from friends I have in those businesses) to succeed don't feel envious for those that don't have to conform to be successful...:g:

Dallas is kind of similar, and a guy like Mark Cuban seems to be successful there. He seems like more of a Philly personality.

[Dcarnys]

You wanna know what. As long as MJ produces and actualy markets the team, I'm cool with it. I don't care where he lives or about his personal life. I want to see my team do well. Isn't that what really matters.

[tondi]

Some of you are placing way too much blame on Charlotte and not nearly enough on BJ for the way the team was received its first few years.

[Ghost Kat]

My two cents: Micheal Jordan equals money

Lets Go MikeCats!!!!!

[CatNation]

MJ doesn't have nearly the money or assets that even Bob had...

[Ghost Kat]

MJ doesn't have nearly the money or assets that even Bob had...

No but who's face would the people respect more beside the name Bobcats owner? If you saw a flier saying game tonight ch. 1 & 2 and they told you Jordan owned a team and Bob Johnson owned a team, which channel you turning to first?

Jordan as the owner is more marketable and thats means money

[spectre]

MJ doesn't have nearly the money or assets that even Bob had...

Everyone needs to run out and buy some Hanes really quick!

If this was Nascar the bloomers would be flying off the shelf since yesterday.

[Scottley Crue]

When Mr. Johnson moved the team in here the way he did, and did not play the right kind of homage to the kind folks at the newspaper and to Charlotteans in general, they turned away. Anyone that thinks the NBA is not good for this town is not thinking clearly. The people who are constantly criticizing the Bobcats because the arena was taxpayer funded, or who fervently oppose rapid transit, and other forward-thinking, economic infra-structure growing investments in this city, don't deserve much of an audience. IMHO they represent a very small and narrow, but loud, minority view in this town. I hope people will come around on the Bobcats. Who cares where Jordan lives, all we should care about is if the team is properly run and has a reasonable chance at success. I don't get Tom Sorenson's (usually off-the-hip and poorly researched) point of view at all and have wondered why the paper has kept him on as long as it has. Go Cats!

I personally am very happy that Jordan is now the principal owner. While I would have been Ok with Postolos, I can't see how having arguably the best and most influental player in the history of the game as the owner of your team is a bad thing. The only thing that I know I'll find annoying is the things you bring up about the less-than-open-minded criticisms of how Jordan should run the team...by people that wouldn't set foot in the arena anyway. (Got a handful of those where I work. Know exactly how to fix everything about the team, but have no interest in seeing them even if those fixes were made.)

I rarely read Sorenson because it's clear to me that his goal to is make as many people angry as possible...that's just the type of guy he is. Once I saw the headline this morning, I knew I shouldn't read what he wrote. Doesn't Jordan own a place on Lake Norman? Is that not close enough? Or should he buy a place right beside Sorenson and bake him cookies every morning to prove he's comitted to Charlotte? I guess gathering hundreds of millions of dollars to take controlling interest in the team isn't enough of a first step.

I guess I just have a tremendously hard time understanding the mindset that believes that since someone owns a team here, he must do EVERYTHING here (live, eat, sleep, shop) or he's not "all-in." I've lived here all my life and have seen this mentality at work, but have never bought in and really can't understand why it's a big deal. I think the product on the floor should be the main concern...not if the owner is getting his milk at the local Food Lion.

[Walt Cronkite]

MJ doesn't have nearly the money or assets that even Bob had...

To me, this is a good thing. Johnson didn't have as much money as some of the super wealthy owners (Paul Allen) but he wasn't hurting for cash that he wasn't willing to make some awful business decisions. From the reports of MJ having to put in a lot of his own money... this is great news to me. He's going to be determined to make this is a sustainable organization, which is all I'm asking for as a fan.

[teej]

Dallas is kind of similar, and a guy like Mark Cuban seems to be successful there. He seems like more of a Philly personality.

He was born in PA, so you're right :biggrin:

And why can't Charlotte get a big art industry or something, music people, tv people, anyone to diversify. I'd take a major university, which UNCC is becoming.

[spectre]

To me, this is a good thing. Johnson didn't have as much money as some of the super wealthy owners (Paul Allen) but he wasn't hurting for cash that he wasn't willing to make some awful business decisions. From the reports of MJ having to put in a lot of his own money... this is great news to me. He's going to be determined to make this is a sustainable organization, which is all I'm asking for as a fan.

Good post, and I don't think anyone's hit it at quite that angle (apologies if I missed anyone that did).

Couple of things in an Observer article that also hasn't been mentioned or mentioned very little:

What kind of NBA owner will Michael Jordan be? (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/02/27/1278624/what-kind-of-owner-will-jordan.html)


Sources tell the Observer that Jordan decided last week to make a significant financial commitment.



Johnson and Jordan have about 18 minority partners under the current arrangement. One told the Observer on Saturday they had been told to expect a loss on their investment to make this sale work.
"Essentially, that we're not going to get back what we put in," the partner said. "Significantly less."

[teej]

As much as Jordan's putting in, he's still not going to have as much in as some other guys, so he won't feel like Bob did about losing it, either. However, he'll be a lot more high-profile and it'll be too embarassing for him to mess up, I think.

And the minority partners don't really have enough in it to miss it. Though I am sad to see Felix Sabates leaving, he's a great guy.

[teej]

I don't think they are kidding, but some of the dumbest stuff I've heard is about how the name should be changed.

From Bonnell



Should "Bobcats'' name depart, too?

If Michael Jordan listens to his customers, and potential customers, he'll seriously consider a name change from "Bobcats'' once his purchase of Charlotte's NBA franchise is complete.
Too many of you have emailed me with that suggestion not to think it's an issue to many Charlotteans. You didn't like Bob Johnson naming the team after himself, and you sure don't see this as a positive once Johnson is no longer majority owner.
This wouldn't be cheap. I spoke with an NBA executive who estimated it would cost the franchise anywhere from $3 million to $10 million to rebrand the team. There are so many signs and logos that would have to be replaced, and any pre-existing merchandise gets deeply discounted or thrown away. (Example: You could have bought an Adam Morrison jersey REALLY cheap last March.)
By the way -- that same NBA insider who estimated the cost at $3-$10 million said it would be money well spent.

[spectre]

Bonnell's on fire!

Source: Jordan investment in Bobcats deal substantial (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/02/28/1280542/source-jordan-investement-in-bobcats.html)

Reiterating that Jordan pulled it off at the last minute and that he's promised a lot of the funds personally.

Significant to us:


One possible move that could come this week: Sources say the Bobcats have talked about signing combo guard Larry Hughes for the rest of the season. Hughes was bought out of his contract with the Sacramento Kings last week.
Since Hughes was waived before March 1, he would be eligible for a playoff roster with the Bobcats. However, Hughes is recovering from a fractured finger, so he might not be immediately available to play.

[dnbman]

Flight really makes a lot of sense now.

What was the fan reaction when the Bullets changed to the Wizards?

I'm just wondering how die-hards are going to feel when they have a whole bunch of Bobcats gear for the Charlotte Flight (or whatever)? Maybe they don't care.

Instant retro jerseys?

[spectre]

I'd get over it...but I'd hate to lose the name. It's our identity now.

[teej]

Flight really makes a lot of sense now.

What was the fan reaction when the Bullets changed to the Wizards?

I'm just wondering how die-hards are going to feel when they have a whole bunch of Bobcats gear for the Charlotte Flight (or whatever)? Maybe they don't care.

Instant retro jerseys?

My only question is can we change jerseys again, since we literally JUST changed them. And would a name change count as that?

EDIT

also, saw this


An exact purchase price hasn't been revealed, but industry sources estimate it's in excess of $250 million.

[dnbman]

My only question is can we change jerseys again, since we literally JUST changed them. And would a name change count as that?

I think you can do it as often as you want as long as you let the league know some time ahead (a year?).

Nowadays, it doesn't really matter anyway with all of the retro and alternative uniforms teams have. The Cavs look different every night to me.

[SWedd523]

I can understand both sides of the argument, making it a really tough call for me.

On one hand, I understand many Charlotteans have a distinct animosity towards Bob for a number of reasons (business relationship snafus, naming the team for himself, being black) and changing the name would be a good way for the city to "wash" their collective hands of him and move on. Though I'm sure they would bitch and moan about just about anything MJ does because that's how cheese and "whiney" they are. Also, if they are to change the name, now is probably the best chance they'll have with the team being so young and since we're still building a true identity.

But on the other side, the team IS the Bobcats, that's their identity. They're finally becoming a legitimate franchise and are on the ups relatively considering a lot of other teams. Something as major as changing the identity of the team would be akin to starting over from scratch, so I wouldn't see the benefit of changing the name.


If Postolos got the team and followed through with a franchise restructuring from top to bottom, then I could better deal with a logo change. But since MJ is likely preserving the status quo, I think the Bobcats name should change... Just drop the Bob and refer to them as the Cats (BRNC ;))

[teej]

I think you can do it as often as you want as long as you let the league know some time ahead (a year?).

Nowadays, it doesn't really matter anyway with all of the retro and alternative uniforms teams have. The Cavs look different every night to me.

I remember reading something about you can bring in an alternate every year or every other year, but the main jersey can only change every 5 years?

I'm not sure.

[millst2]

I think if Jordan wants to change the name I am all for it. Yeah we have been Bobcats fans since they announced the team name, but I do not see it as a bad thing to remove any ties to Bob Johnson that remain after he finalizes the deal.

I live in Davidson county and the people I speak to that follow the NBA have asked me on several occasions why I would pull for a team that was named after the owner ( which is afraid to spend money to put a winner on the floor) than simply cheer for the Hawks.

Now I am not saying we should change the name, but us as diehard bobcats fans, we have to look at the image that we do have. The only way we land superstars is to shed this tightwad image and make the moves to get this team noticed on and off the court.

The Charlotte Flight or Carolina Flight has a decent ring to it, and it would be a smart move. Charlotte Bobcats kind of alienates the rest of the Carolinas. Well not really but think about the fans living in Spartanburg, columbia, Raliegh, Wilmington, Greensboro, Asheville etc. The naming with a city name is ok, but we aren't atlanta or boston or another big market team, so we do like the geniuses told the Hurricanes and Panthers to do. name it Carolina that way you get to market more easily to a larger reach.

Doesn't matter much to me but the way this team had been ran you need to market to all of north and south carolina and get a fukn TV deal where the loyal fans and people interested to know and see more, can watch. Without using streams online. Even Leaguepass want even allow you to watch the bobcats. Which is stupid, the nba could simply do a revshare with all the teams minus cost. Wow thats genius, They should try that, whats the damn difference sharing rev on One Cable network and direct tv, when they could split the 150$ a yr per League pass subscriber, and make as much if not more than cable.

Anyways sorry for the rant, but I hope now that jordan has 100+ mill in the deal, as I am sure he has the most skin in the game now ( he previously was second largest stakeholder) he will get off his ass and get this team ( whatever the name is ) into as many households and restraunts and bars across the carolinas.

[TattoodCats4life]

I kinda have my own reasons for us to not change the name/logo :) BUT they could bring back the "Carolina Cougars" (or go with Charlotte Cougars) and keep the logos the same, just let the lettering change :) A "script" look would be cool :) Either way bobcats brought bball back to charlotte, nothing can change that.

[Muttley]

Just read Bonnell's name-change blog. Still think the name should stay. We can always just call them the Cats.

Alternatively, someone posted on the observer that the name be changed to he "Charlotte Grudge Holders." I like that.

[Slam]

I'd get over it...but I'd hate to lose the name. It's our identity now.
:yeahthat:

[Proudiddy]

I'm just wondering how die-hards are going to feel when they have a whole bunch of Bobcats gear for the Charlotte Flight (or whatever)? Maybe they don't care.


Same way I felt when I've bought a player's jersey only to have them traded for a garbage salary albatross who is content with making up injuries to sit the bench and count his money (See Emeka Okafor).

But, seriously, I would love a name change. I don't care if it was named after BJ or not, I just think it's corny. When we first came out with the name/jerseys I thought it was corny. Orange is a hot color for unis, but not when it's made the primary color and your team looks like a Rec League team sponsored by a construction company. Maybe Black/orange/blue should've been the color scheme (similar to the Cincy Bengals use of orange and black).

Second, so far, it's been obvious that we don't have a strong fan base. So there isn't much to lose. Are any of us on this board going to stop pulling for them b/c they change their name? Nope. It's our team regardless. So really, MJ only has something to gain here and nothing to lose.

I just wish we Shinn's greedy ass would've left the Hornet's stuff for us. New Orleans is a great town and had plenty of options to rename them based off all they have there.

BTW, the poll associated with Bonnell's blog on the name change has it 76 to 24 in favor of changing the name with over 1,000 votes in last time I checked.

[spectre]

Don't know if this has been mentioned or not:

http://www2.journalnow.com/content/2010/feb/27/jordan-faces-challenges-owning-bobcats/sports-professional-basketball-bobcats/


Jordan remained silent on Saturday. Details of his ownership group _ called MJ Basketball Holdings LLC _ weren't available. Sabates said he won't be part of Jordan's ownership group, and believes Jordan is buying 100 percent of the team.
Johnson, the first black majority owner of a major professional sports team, has also declined comment after coming close to ridding himself of a venture that cost him a fortune.
"Whatever the number is, Bob is taking a huge financial loss," Sabates said. "He tried hard. He just made some stupid mistakes. Bob has a bit of an attitude problem that some people owe him. Nobody owes anybody anything."


That'd put him somewhere between 80-85% wouldn't it? Johnson owned "north of 70%" and MJ already had like 10-15% I think.

[jdsingar]

As an actual fan, I am definitely opposed to the name change. I've definitely attached myself to the name, as goofy as it is. I think much of the negativity concerning the name comes from the resentful people in Charlotte, who don't seem to care much about the Cats anyway.

If the new name was a good one, it would be worth it. Flight and Cougars are both awful though. Flight is a WNBA team name and Cougars would be even more of a joke than Bobcats...i'm not sure I want our team associated with attractive middle aged women that enjoy engaging in sexual activity with those much younger than they are. Or do i....? :g:

[CatNation]

Its impossible to find a new name that people won't call WNBA or stupid etc. If you think about it almost all the names are stupid, the only reason you don't care is because youre used to them being there for 15+ years.

At least Bobcats mean something to the area unlike say the Raptors, Jazz, Bulls, Lakers etc. Hell, the Raptors name is based off a goddamn movie that was popular at the time. It'd be like us becoming the Charlotte Avatars.

Flight isn't any dumber than Magic, Heat, or Thunder either.



I'm fine with whatever happens. Flight would be the best option IMO and I think Jordan brand could create pretty sick designs off that logo. Unfortunately they are trying to limit teams in having black jerseys which I think would be the best with that.

[Slam]

I don't get people saying that Bobcats is a silly sounding name? I personally think it's one of the best names in the NBA. How can Bobcats be considered a bad name with the likes of:

Nets - What the hell is that?
Knickerbockers - As in the 3/4 length pants worn during WW!?
Raptors - Because dinosaurs have so much to do with Canada?
Cavaliers - A royalist term......but the USA isn't even a part of the Monarch?
Pistons - It's a part of a car. A part of a freaking car!
Pacers - A type of racing horse
Heat - Maybe because it's warm down south I guess, but why name a team after a climate?
Magic - Okkkkkkkkkkkkkkk.
Spurs - Named after the thing on the back of a cowboy boot?
Thunder - See Heat, only this time it's an effect of the weather rather than the weather itself?
Jazz - It's a music style.
Clippers - A hair cutting tool?
Lakers - I can't even work this one out.
Suns - See Thunder and Heat, only this time it's the thing that causes the climate rather than the climate.

I just don't get all the "Bobcats" hate when, to me, it's one of the coolest names in the NBA.

The Bobcats
The Bobbies
The Cats

All cool in my book.

[Slam]

Its impossible to find a new name that people won't call WNBA or stupid etc. If you think about it almost all the names are stupid, the only reason you don't care is because youre used to them being there for 15+ years.

At least Bobcats mean something to the area unlike say the Raptors, Jazz, Bulls, Lakers etc. Hell, the Raptors name is based off a goddamn movie that was popular at the time. It'd be like us becoming the Charlotte Avatars.

Flight isn't any dumber than Magic, Heat, or Thunder either.
You beat me by 2mins!!

Great minds....................

[CatNation]

:biggrin:

Like I said, it wouldn't really bother me either way.

The way I see it, it'd be like me (low on funds :D) buying a car thats leaking oil, needs new sparkplugs and a change of tires but the first thing I do is buy it a new paintjob.

This team has enough issues that need to be addressed as it is, the TV problem being #1 in my opinion. Maybe thats because I'm one of the many that live in NC yet can't watch the games :facepalm:

[Muttley]

:biggrin:

Like I said, it wouldn't really bother me either way.

The way I see it, it'd be like me (low on funds :D) buying a car thats leaking oil, needs new sparkplugs and a change of tires but the first thing I do is buy it a new paintjob.

This team has enough issues that need to be addressed as it is, the TV problem being #1 in my opinion. Maybe thats because I'm one of the many that live in NC yet can't watch the games :facepalm:

Good analogy! There are so many other more important things to spend money on to fix the team than to change the name. MJ could either spend millions of dollars to change the name, OR he could release a statement saying how he likes the name and supports the "Bobcats" and you would get the same result. North Carolinians (or at least the folks that aren't really fans but claim they would be fans if they changed the name) would follow MJ off a cliff.

The analogy I came up with is this:
When my dog was a puppy, he would crap on the floor and not wait to go outside to use the bathroom. Now that he's housetrained, I should change his name so that I'm not constantly reminded that used to crap on the floor.

I really think that the Bobcats is a really great name. The actual animal lives in NC and they may not be as large as other animals, but they're just as fierce. Sounds to me like it is the exact description of the Charlotte Bobcats.

[SWedd523]

I really think that the Bobcats is a really great name. The actual animal lives in NC and they may not be as large as other animals, but they're just as fierce. Sounds to me like it is the exact description of the Charlotte Bobcats.

That's why we had to get rid of Sean May

[BRNC]

That's why we had to get rid of Sean May

...fear that he'd eat the remaining Bobcats....?:biggrin:

[ALong13]

After another game of blowing the lead, I think the team should become the first NBA team named after a vegetable (the way we seem to play in the latter quarters)

AND NOW FOR THE 4TH QUARTER....

YOUR CHARLOTTE ARTICHOKES! :facepalm:

[BRNC]

funny...but fitting...

[SWedd523]

http://espn.go.com/blog/TrueHoop/post/_/id/13869/michael-jordans-next-challenge

pretty good read. Especially like/am concerned with the part about his personal wealth and ability to sustain losses:




He's placing a large bet on his own skills running an NBA team.

Teams can cost $100 million or more to run a season, when you factor in player salaries, coaches, front office staff, travel costs, various building costs, insurance and other liabilities. A few years ago, Forbes estimated Jordan's net worth at just north of $300 million. Since then, the purchase of this team and his own divorce have been estimated to total close to $400 million. How much money can be left over to take the team to the next level? How long can Jordan sustain losses?

Meanwhile, many of the owners he's competing against -- people like Paul Allen, Rich DeVos, Micky Arison and Stan Kroenke -- are reportedly worth billions.

[teej]

http://espn.go.com/blog/TrueHoop/post/_/id/13869/michael-jordans-next-challenge

pretty good read. Especially like/am concerned with the part about his personal wealth and ability to sustain losses:

Forbes net worthed him at $525 mil last year, post divorce and everything.

And the purchase price is close to $240 according to the Wall Street Journal.

Abbot is good, but he was dead wrong there.

Also, he doesn't really give Jordan much credit for anything outside of Jackson...not too forgiving is he?

[SWedd523]

I was just commenting on the fact that he has roughly half of his value tied up into the franchise, which could be good (he seriously dives into putting a winning, money making product on the floor) or be bad (the team continues to hemorrhage money and he becomes a major tightwad or sells the team)

[spectre]

Good find SWedd.

So Johnson HAD to sell. Very interesting.

If we lose 40 million bucks this year then I'm struggling hard to see us going over the LT to retain either TT or Felton. Thing is unless something drastic happens we could let both those walk and barely have the MLE to sign another PG while still staying under the tax.

Luke Ridnour, starting PG for YOUR Charlotte Bobcats in 2011. :facepalm:

[BRNC]

good find SWedd...my take (after the sale went through)...MJ tried to play with someones money other than his (I would also...who would not) and when it did not happen he committed...I can't (on any level) imagine MJ wanting to lose (even a dollar) on the team...I think he will leverage his name to as much of a benefit to the team as possible...bring in as much sponsorship money as possible...and try to give the fans a good product...I see it as a win for the fans and the team...:D

[spectre]

Charlotte Bobcats Sale Embarrassing For NBA (http://blogs.forbes.com/sportsmoney/2010/03/charlotte-bobcats-sale-embarrassing-for-nba/)


If NBA owners approve, Michael Jordan is going to buy controlling interest in the Charlotte Bobcats for a price that values the franchise at about $175 million. This is a big blow to the NBA because current owner Robert L. Johnson paid an expansion fee of $300 million seven years ago and the league has several teams hunting for investors. Other than right here, I doubt you will see a price for a long, long time in the media. Usually, when a team is sold related stories include estimated prices, frequently leaked by the NBA or someone involved with the transaction. I searched Google but could not find one story that mentioned the price. The NBA is embarrassed about the $175 million valuation. And rightfully so.

Via this link:

Source: Jordan Paid $175 Million for Cats (http://www.foxcharlotte.com/news/top-stories/86270112.html)

[spectre]

If this is right, since Jordan already owned around 15% AND you still have other minority owners...doesn't that mean in the end this deal only cost him like 140-150 million?

That's a freaking steal no matter how much money they're losing.

[Toocool]

Sucks to be Bob. Really does. But then he didn't put his whole heart and soul into the franchise. If he had, I'm sure we would have a different story. With MJ now, let's hope he's really able to turn things around.

[King Taharqa]

Sucks to be Bob. Really does. But then he didn't put his whole heart and soul into the franchise. If he had, I'm sure we would have a different story. With MJ now, let's hope he's really able to turn things around.

I disagree that Bob hasnt put his heart & soul into this. The city of Charlotte hasnt put its heart & soul behind the Bobcats. But I agree, I hope Mike can get things turn around. This is a hostile market for NBA basketball with so-so fan support and you cant overlook that. It wont be easy for MJ.

[Slam]

Imagine if MJ didn't get the approval from the other owners?

[Slam]

Charlotte Bobcats Sale Embarrassing For NBA (http://blogs.forbes.com/sportsmoney/2010/03/charlotte-bobcats-sale-embarrassing-for-nba/)



Via this link:

Source: Jordan Paid $175 Million for Cats (http://www.foxcharlotte.com/news/top-stories/86270112.html)
That doesn't make any sense.

It doesn't matter what it is valued at. The only thing that matters is how much someone is willing to spend.

Unless George P totally lowballed Top Bob, something doesn't sit right with this report - other wise Top Bob would have sold to the higher bidder between the two.

[spectre]

Sure it does if the report that Johnson's creditors mandated that he sell the team by March.

Basically Postolos made an offer and Jordan had the right to match it...which he did.

[Slam]

Sure it does if the report that Johnson's creditors mandated that he sell the team by March.

Basically Postolos made an offer and Jordan had the right to match it...which he did.
Right - so Postolos must have low balled Top Bob then.

[spectre]

Right - so Postolos must have low balled Top Bob then.

Interesting position to be in (Postolos). Knowing Jordan has right of first refusal, should he put forth an offer that's way more than the team is worth knowing the value is only going to get worse just so Jordan won't match...or does he offer what he thinks it's worth hoping Jordan won't regardless.

Going by Simmons' article the other week, with the impending CBA renegotiation now is definitely NOT the time to be buying a franchise as they're all grossly overvalued. Being a business guy he had to have known that and most likely wasn't meeting Johnson's preposterous demands last summer, which is why it didn't get sold then.

IMO he definitely lowballed Johnson.

[Muttley]

Interesting position to be in (Postolos). Knowing Jordan has right of first refusal, should he put forth an offer that's way more than the team is worth knowing the value is only going to get worse just so Jordan won't match...or does he offer what he thinks it's worth hoping Jordan won't regardless.

Going by Simmons' article the other week, with the impending CBA renegotiation now is definitely NOT the time to be buying a franchise as they're all grossly overvalued. Being a business guy he had to have known that and most likely wasn't meeting Johnson's preposterous demands last summer, which is why it didn't get sold then.

IMO he definitely lowballed Johnson.

So, could we speculate further that he lowballed on purpose, knowing that Jordan would match it, thus driving down the price of all franchises, so that the next one he tries to purchase has a lower price. Is Postolos that crafty?

[Felton for Prez]

I bet the Russian that bought the Nets is even more pissed off than the rest of the NBA.

[Slam]

So, could we speculate further that he lowballed on purpose, knowing that Jordan would match it, thus driving down the price of all franchises, so that the next one he tries to purchase has a lower price. Is Postolos that crafty?
DING DING DING!!

That's my feeling too Muttley. Postolos just wants to buy A franchise - wouldn't matter to him if it was THIS franchise or another one that he now might be able to get cheaper at a later date.

[Muttley]

DING DING DING!!

That's my feeling too Muttley. Postolos just wants to buy A franchise - wouldn't matter to him if it was THIS franchise or another one that he now might be able to get cheaper at a later date.
This would be an incredibly smart move by Postolos.
Just think, who's more likely to get approved for purchasing a franchise for $175 million, Michael Jordan or George Postolos? Then the 2nd time around, Postolos has more ammunition to support his lower purchasing price. Also, maybe he was just being political, but in Postolos' comments after the Jordan announcement, he didn't exactly sound like he was overly disappointed.

[spectre]

So, could we speculate further that he lowballed on purpose, knowing that Jordan would match it, thus driving down the price of all franchises, so that the next one he tries to purchase has a lower price. Is Postolos that crafty?

True...but how many "perfect storms" will there be like the Bobcats? I think the only reason Johnson would sell this low is because his creditors demanded it.

Look at the GSW owner. He's been looking to sell for years, been hounded by the IRS yet he's still hanging on.

[teej]

I disagree that Bob hasnt put his heart & soul into this.

Bob hasn't put one eighth the effort of his left pinky's nail into this.



Unless George P totally lowballed Top Bob, something doesn't sit right with this report - other wise Top Bob would have sold to the higher bidder between the two.

Forbes' guy also said Stern wanted MJ to have it. If Postolos didn't lowball, how much do you want to bet Stern is paying the difference in the offers?


So, could we speculate further that he lowballed on purpose, knowing that Jordan would match it, thus driving down the price of all franchises, so that the next one he tries to purchase has a lower price. Is Postolos that crafty?

Then he would've done it with Portland and the Nets too, and made a crazy lowball offer in GSW. Maybe he would've done it on the Wizards or Pistons too.

And there's no way that $350 million number would've gotten out.

[ohara831]

I think in retrospect that Bobcat fans got lucky. As mentioned over at RGM, I think if Postolos got them that cheap, he could wait just 2-3 years and likely move the team and absorb the penalty for moving early. Charlotte gets a bunch of money, Postolos moves the team for a sweet deal, and the Charlotte fans lose out again. I think with MJ owning them, his ties to NC will likely make sure a move on his part unlikely.

[dnbman]

DING DING DING!!

That's my feeling too Muttley. Postolos just wants to buy A franchise - wouldn't matter to him if it was THIS franchise or another one that he now might be able to get cheaper at a later date.

Yeah, I'm not sure if it was to set up a future sell so much as it was to see if he can get a franchise on the cheap. Of course, this helps his case for the next available franchise, but I think he would have been happy to get an NBA franchise at that price.

One thing exciting about this is that Jordan won't have nearly as much invested to think about when he makes decisions. Not that $175 isn't a huge sum, but he's feeling better about going into the luxury tax than he would if he had $300M + on it. Hopefully, this is a good thing for the Bobcats if not for the NBA.

[dnbman]

Bob hasn't put one eighth the effort of his left pinky's nail into this.

The guy wasn't a model owner by any means, but I think he at least started with a lot of heart and soul in it. I think he was just way over his head. BET was an easy project that paid very well. The NBA is a hard project that doesn't necessarily pay as well. I think he was just in over his head and lost the plot over the last couple of years.



Forbes' guy also said Stern wanted MJ to have it. If Postolos didn't lowball, how much do you want to bet Stern is paying the difference in the offers?

I enjoy a good conspiracy theory, but I would be SHOCKED beyond belief if Stern did anything of the sort. Unlike lottery balls, money has a giant paper trail. If word got out that Stern helped pay for the Bobcats, there would be a massive conflict of interest.

[Slam]

True...but how many "perfect storms" will there be like the Bobcats? I think the only reason Johnson would sell this low is because his creditors demanded it.

Look at the GSW owner. He's been looking to sell for years, been hounded by the IRS yet he's still hanging on.
I'm wondering if he is positioning himself to take a run at the Pistons.

They might cost a little more than the Bobcats - but they would also generate more money for him.

If he can get them at a reduced cost as a direct effect of this $175 mil finding, it might play right into his hands.

[BRNC]

Slam...or even GSW...you do have to wonder what his interest (other than "on the cheap") was in the Bobcats...I tend to go with he has a "long term" goal in mind that involves another team...:g:

[dnbman]

Slam...or even GSW...you do have to wonder what his interest (other than "on the cheap") was in the Bobcats...I tend to go with he has a "long term" goal in mind that involves another team...:g:

Maybe, but I think at the end of the day, he's a businessman who knows a good deal when he sees it. Getting an NBA team for almost half of the entry price is a huge discount, one that very rarely comes along on NBA franchises.

[BRNC]

Maybe, but I think at the end of the day, he's a businessman who knows a good deal when he sees it. Getting an NBA team for almost half of the entry price is a huge discount, one that very rarely comes along on NBA franchises.

I agree 100%...why pass up a bargain if it is the product you're shopping for...

[Slam]

Slam...or even GSW...you do have to wonder what his interest (other than "on the cheap") was in the Bobcats...I tend to go with he has a "long term" goal in mind that involves another team...:g:
I think him going through the process of making a formal offer to Top Bop was just a small step towards him getting what he really wants.

Which is another, more profitable team at a reduced cost - like the Pistons.

[dnbman]

I think him going through the process of making a formal offer to Top Bop was just a small step towards him getting what he really wants.

Which is another, more profitable team at a reduced cost - like the Pistons.

That could be the case. But, if I'm looking to be a vintage black Ferrari and come across an identical Ferrari in red for half the price, there's a good chance I'm going to buy the red one.

I definitely see the point of bringing down value for future purchasing, but I think he would have been very happy to get a franchise at that price. I guess another way to put it is that he wouldn't felt like his plan backfired if Jordan didn't match.

[teej]

I guess another way to put it is that he wouldn't felt like his plan backfired if Jordan didn't match.

Excellent way of putting it.

Is he not just looking to run a team? What's worse here than Detroit or GSW?

Detroit is a shrinking city stuck in a full-on depression, and has about two talented young guys and wasted all its cap this past year.

GSW has talent, but they're a mess. And while I'm sure he could make the team a winner, that arena is ancient and Oakland/California isn't going to help pay for one like Houston did.

I don't see why he would've been upset with this team or even not wanted it in the first place.

[BRNC]

Many business deals are simply "set-ups" for the next deal...Postolos knew MJ had "right-of-first-refusal"...I see it as a good "business" move on his part to bid low...if he'd won...he really would have "won"...but I think he knew MJ would buy the team...so in fact...he was setting up the next deal...in the long run he will still "win" and buy a team "on the cheap"...:biggrin:

[King Taharqa]

Bob hasn't put one eighth the effort of his left pinky's nail into this.

"When are we gonna get naming rights for Bobcats Arena?"
"When are games gonna be broadcast all over the state?"
"Is Bob gonna be cheap and not re-sign Gerald? I'm done with this team if he doesnt"
"When is Bob gonna hire a real coach?"

If Bob didnt care or put forth effort none of these issues wouldve been resolved. And judging by what the team is selling for, he could've easily dumped salary and cut costs instead of pouring more money into a HOF coach, re-upping his players, and taking on trades and salaries he really didnt have to. Owners that dont care dont bring in high salary coaches when their team is losing millions upon millions every year. Bob has unfairly been portrayed as a carpetbagger. And this is in a city and market where the average person has never set foot in TWC Arena. Yet the man who put up 300 mill, got an arena built, set the stage for MJ to become a pro owner, and has us in a "playoff hunt" is the one who doesnt care. Bullshit. People see Cuban's hands on approach and think every NBA owner is like him, when the reality is, most NBA owner are alot closer to Bob's "keep a low profile, hire the right people, and keep hands off" style that he uses.

[spectre]

Agree with King.

[teej]

If Bob didnt care or put forth effort none of these issues wouldve been resolved.

Second issue isn't resolved.

And for the rest of your point, there is a difference between spending money and giving effort/caring. If he really "put forth effort" he wouldn't have pissed off everyone in Charlotte, he wouldn't have named the team after himself, he would've made sure that C-Set got into more than 27 homes, he would've had ticket prices compatible to both the arena and on-court product, he would've done more to embrace the whole state of NC (or the Carolinas as a whole) rather than just the Queen City, he would have figured out how not to make an ass of himself.

Proven billionaires don't lose $150+ million on their own investment when their involved in it.

[Slam]

That could be the case. But, if I'm looking to be a vintage black Ferrari and come across an identical Ferrari in red for half the price, there's a good chance I'm going to buy the red one.

I definitely see the point of bringing down value for future purchasing, but I think he would have been very happy to get a franchise at that price. I guess another way to put it is that he wouldn't felt like his plan backfired if Jordan didn't match.
Sure.............or he buys the Bobcats at a stupidly low rate of $175 mil, waits 2 years for Seattle to build a new arena then says "hey, I had budgeted to spend $300 mill - now I can move the team from Charlotte, absorb the fines easily, and put them in a market that might make me more money" leaving Charlotte with no team..............again!

[teej]

From Bonnell:



Phil Jackson on Jordan-as-owner

Lakers coach Phil Jackson on Michael Jordan buying the Charlotte Bobcats (courtesy of Kevin Ding of the Orange County Register):

"As far as ownership goes and general manager, I think there are a lot of players that are capable of doing that job. You just have to be able to connive a little bit and be able to manipulate agents and I think those are things that it takes a poker player sometimes to do that.

"I don't think there's any discussion about knowing talent," Jackson added. "He sees talent and knows talent pretty well. I think he understands that concept. I think a lot of key players see those ingredients in other players, that can match that like Jerry West kind of picking up on Kobe Bryant being that kind of a player when he was a high school guy."

And on reigniting Charlotte's past connection to the NBA:
"This was a team that led the NBA in attendance for maybe 10 years. They had a big arena, they fell in love with their Hornets team back in the late '80s and '90s and they had some great draft picks and they had some wonderful runs with their team.''

[King Taharqa]

And for the rest of your point, there is a difference between spending money and giving effort/caring. If he really "put forth effort" he wouldn't have pissed off everyone in Charlotte,

As a native Charlottean, I can tell you Mr.Johnson didnt piss everyone off. In fact, Im proud of the basketball team he left us. Who he did piss off was a couple of twirps at our local newspaper who've probably never picked up a basketball or a football in their life. Being enraged over the fact Mr.Johnson was awarded an NBA franchise over their boyhood hero Larry Bird and the Belkin Group they have always viewed Mr.Johnson as an outsider and carpetbagger. They've invested 6 years into creating an atmosphere of distrust and animosity towards Mr.Johnson locally. And in such an impressionable market like ours after the Hornets debacle they've succeeded.


he wouldn't have named the team after himself

A Bobcat is a real animal that is indiginous to the state of NC. In fact, you're more likely to see a bobcat in NC than a panther. My only suggestion is if it bothers you or anyone else so much that this team could be named after its founder, why pull for them? Im a Panther fan as well as a Bobcat fan. If I hated Jerry Richardson or at least strongly disliked him as a person or didnt like that his team that he paid for is named after him, I would not be a Panther fan. I'd pull for the Cowboys, or be a Brett Favre fan. But I wouldnt support that team. This sentiment is all too common in this market, and is a big reason why people are so slow to embrace this team. I can tell you as a native Charlottean someone thats lived here over 3 decades, that its petty as hell and makes me and my city look misguided.


he would've made sure that C-Set got into more than 27 homes, he would've had ticket prices compatible to both the arena and on-court product,

C-Set was a failure and Bob was too ambitious to try and start a TV network here after the Hornets debacle. I do think Bob underestimated the hostility he would get here locally and how pissed off local media types and fans were that Bird was not awarded the team. In hindsight, he probably would've never attempted the C-set venture. Sad thing is, when he scrapped it and fired all the people he had behind it, the local media beat him up for it and wrote articles blasting him for firing all those "nice hard working people". LOL.

As for ticket prices, I have never had an issue with them. When I go to TWC Arena I usually sit in the uppers and move down. Most Ive ever paid for individual tickets is about 23 bucks for me, my cousin, and his girlfriend. Had the time of my life and enjoyed seeing us beat the shit out of a disjointed NY Knicks team a season back. I bought season tickets in 2006 for 200 bucks, and let me tell you. Just witnessing first hand the Bobcats beating the Lakers in triple OT, the greatest Bobcats game off all time, was worth the 200 alone. I have never understood the talk of high pricing. I think some people are insecure about their money going to an owner they have such strong animosity towards.


he would've done more to embrace the whole state of NC (or the Carolinas as a whole) rather than just the Queen City,

The city required the name of the team to be Charlotte as part of the deal to get the NBA back here. And I think the city of Charlotte and Charlotteans can do more to embrace the Bobcats.

Marketing this team to the entire state of NC & SC is not as easy as you think. This isnt the Hornets in 88-95 with no other pro sports team in the Carolinas, making it the only pro sports team Carolinians have to identify with. Add the fact that this is a college basketball state where UNC and Duke have always been bigger and more popular than any other previous NBA or ABA team that played in the state, you can see why its a tough sell here.


he would have figured out how not to make an ass of himself..

I think you're being a little too hard on Mr. Johnson.



Proven billionaires don't lose $150+ million on their own investment when their involved in it.

Is that so?


Since 2006, Allen asked Portland and Oregon officials for assistance in the financing of the Blazers, which he estimated would lose $100 million over the next three years. Portland Mayor Tom Potter rebuffed the requests.

http://www.mediaman.com.au/profiles/allen.html

And Paul Allen is one of the richest people in the world!

Many NBA teams are losing millions which is why a strike looms in 2011. Its not just the Bobcats.

[teej]

As a native Charlottean, I can tell you Mr.Johnson didnt piss everyone off. In fact, Im proud of the basketball team he left us. Who he did piss off was a couple of twirps at our local newspaper who've probably never picked up a basketball or a football in their life. Being enraged over the fact Mr.Johnson was awarded an NBA franchise over their boyhood hero Larry Bird and the Belkin Group they have always viewed Mr.Johnson as an outsider and carpetbagger. They've invested 6 years into creating an atmosphere of distrust and animosity towards Mr.Johnson locally. And in such an impressionable market like ours after the Hornets debacle they've succeeded.

Perception is reality. Just ask Captain Jack. I have no problem with Bob Johnson the person, I've never met him, and as far as running the team, I don't have any real problems. But he did nothing to go out and quell the hatred and misinformants, and I honestly don't know if he understands they exist.


A Bobcat is a real animal that is indiginous to the state of NC. In fact, you're more likely to see a bobcat in NC than a panther. My only suggestion is if it bothers you or anyone else so much that this team could be named after its founder, why pull for them? Im a Panther fan as well as a Bobcat fan. If I hated Jerry Richardson or at least strongly disliked him as a person or didnt like that his team that he paid for is named after him, I would not be a Panther fan. I'd pull for the Cowboys, or be a Brett Favre fan. But I wouldnt support that team. This sentiment is all too common in this market, and is a big reason why people are so slow to embrace this team. I can tell you as a native Charlottean someone thats lived here over 3 decades, that its petty as hell and makes me and my city look misguided.

Sure, a bobcat is a real animal and is native to NC. Flight is a real acitivity and man-made flight originated in NC. Doesn't make it a good name for MJ.

It doesn't bother me that much. I don't like it, but it doesn't bother me. But it has bothered people to the point that they didn't pull for the team because they saw Bob's ego as the face of the franchise, literally. But I would root for a team, no matter the owner, because they play here in the Carolinas. I may lose interest (Hurricanes) if they aren't winning, but if they're on, I'll watch and cheer for them. I don't care who owns the team, I care about the product. Unfortunately, I don't speak for the Carolinas.


As for ticket prices, I have never had an issue with them. When I go to TWC Arena I usually sit in the uppers and move down. Most Ive ever paid for individual tickets is about 23 bucks for me, my cousin, and his girlfriend. Had the time of my life and enjoyed seeing us beat the shit out of a disjointed NY Knicks team a season back. I bought season tickets in 2006 for 200 bucks, and let me tell you. Just witnessing first hand the Bobcats beating the Lakers in triple OT, the greatest Bobcats game off all time, was worth the 200 alone. I have never understood the talk of high pricing. I think some people are insecure about their money going to an owner they have such strong animosity towards.

The $200 Season Ticket's are a great deal. Really, most of the upper level seats are. But there's a reason the lower level is more populated for practice than some games. And the ticket prices have been significantly lowered over the last two or three years, the prices in the Old Arena were more than they are now.



The city required the name of the team to be Charlotte as part of the deal to get the NBA back here. And I think the city of Charlotte and Charlotteans can do more to embrace the Bobcats.

Marketing this team to the entire state of NC & SC is not as easy as you think. This isnt the Hornets in 88-95 with no other pro sports team in the Carolinas, making it the only pro sports team Carolinians have to identify with. Add the fact that this is a college basketball state where UNC and Duke have always been bigger and more popular than any other previous NBA or ABA team that played in the state, you can see why its a tough sell here.

This has more to do with the lack of marketing period and the poor exposure the team has, since until the end of the '07-08 season pretty much only people with News14 could see the team, and that's not many people. And I remember living in Greensboro when the team was both first announced and started play, I never saw anything Bobcats related on billboards, on tv ads, never heard it on the radio. It quite literally was an accident that I watched the opening game against the Wizards, and I didn't watch another game on tv at home until 2008. I heard about Raymond Felton and Sean May getting drafted because I was a UNC fan, and read about AmMo in the paper, but until I started following the team on my own, it was out of sight and out of mind.


Is that so?

http://www.mediaman.com.au/profiles/allen.html

And Paul Allen is one of the richest people in the world!

That was after poor management in the Jail Blazers era, and I doubt Allen was directly involved in that mess.

And there's no reference to how much he made or lost before then.

[spectre]

Sure.............or he buys the Bobcats at a stupidly low rate of $175 mil, waits 2 years for Seattle to build a new arena then says "hey, I had budgeted to spend $300 mill - now I can move the team from Charlotte, absorb the fines easily, and put them in a market that might make me more money" leaving Charlotte with no team..............again!

That'd teach 'em!

We saw the OKC owner go against the system while paying out a lot more than this. Bottom line the city needs to get behind this team else it's over. Nobody is going to continue to lose 10s of millions a year.

Edit:

Dag King...what an awesome post.

If I'm not mistaken we have some of the lowest ticket prices in the league.

[ohara831]

I have to say that knowing the price, I am really glad MJ got the team. I honestly think he'd be reluctant to make a move to another city unless it was the last resort. Too many NC ties he would burn. Spectre, you are dead on. The city and fans really do need to support the team better because no matter how much he cares about the State and wants to keep the team in NC, he will have to move if he starts bleeding money like Bob Johnson did.

[mj4life]

I think mj might have pulled off one of the greatest come from behind last second shots of his life.(1) his gains controlling interest in the cats for below market value price(those with concerns about MJ's finances may not be aware that he can leverage the team for upto a 150 million loan from the the nba not bad considering that forbes values the team from between 265 and 278 million.(2)The league wants Jordan involved at some level therefor is willing to almost do anything to appease it's greatest cash cow(make no mistake about it Jordan made alot of them billions of dollars and nobody not shaq,not kobe,not lebron, have had or will have the impact jordan had on and off the court)(3) the new cba that at some point will be adopted will include some sort ot agreement that large market teams share some of its local revenue with small market teams(a benefit to us)(4) ownership allows Jordan to continue to build his brand which in turn can not only benefit him but also the team. As a side note some earlier post to this thread made ref. to the price as a means to move the team at some point should also note that the penalty to move the team is upwards of 250 million( to payoff arena debt) so that would mean not only finding an nba ready arena but would likely run your investment in the team to over 400 million excluding the losses you cover while here and making it unlikely that you could at any point recoup your investment.

[Muttley]

I think mj might have pulled off one of the greatest come from behind last second shots of his life.(1) his gains controlling interest in the cats for below market value price(those with concerns about MJ's finances may not be aware that he can leverage the team for upto a 150 million loan from the the nba not bad considering that forbes values the team from between 265 and 278 million.(2)The league wants Jordan involved at some level therefor is willing to almost do anything to appease it's greatest cash cow(make no mistake about it Jordan made alot of them billions of dollars and nobody not shaq,not kobe,not lebron, have had or will have the impact jordan had on and off the court)(3) the new cba that at some point will be adopted will include some sort ot agreement that large market teams share some of its local revenue with small market teams(a benefit to us)(4) ownership allows Jordan to continue to build his brand which in turn can not only benefit him but also the team. As a side note some earlier post to this thread made ref. to the price as a means to move the team at some point should also note that the penalty to move the team is upwards of 250 million( to payoff arena debt) so that would mean not only finding an nba ready arena but would likely run your investment in the team to over 400 million excluding the losses you cover while here and making it unlikely that you could at any point recoup your investment.
Welcome to BCP!

In regards to the last comment about the moving penalty, the dollar amount right now is something like $250million, but in the next few years that penalty decreases. Then something like 5 years after that, it decreases again to the point that for someone like Postolos (who just wants to own any NBA franchise and was trying to pay $150million for this one) the total price to purchase and move the team would be worth it if profits would be higher elsewhere.

That said, I'm not worried about MJ moving the team. I think the team would probably be sold or folded before MJ moves it.

[mj4life]

I am aware of the fact that it goes down over time but my point on this is that 5 to 10 years form now you would still need to find a market that would justify paying whatever fee would be if the team continues to lose 20 to 30 million while you try to make it work here then turn around and pay lets say 75 million .(there just are not enough markets left without a team that could recoup your investment unless one of the la teams moves or you somehow get a second team in chicago p.s. after rereading my first post i meant to say including losses would put your investment in the 400 million range which in turn would be hard to recoup considering that only a handful of nba teams are worth that much

[spectre]

Remember the Forbe's guy who put out the 175 million figure? Check out the comment section:

http://blogs.forbes.com/sportsmoney/2010/03/charlotte-bobcats-sale-embarrassing-for-nba/


http://cdn.js-kit.com/images/stars/admin-comment.png Michael Ozanianhttp://cdn.js-kit.com/images/icon10-external-url.png
Just got a phone call from an NBA flack. Claims my $175 million figure is wrong and real figure is much higher. When I asked him what "enterprise value" the Jordan deal places on the Bobcats he would not say. Remember folks, the only appples-to-apples comparison of transaction prices that is correct is enterprise value (equity plus net debt). Not some ginned up figure leagues throw out that involve infusions of working capital, etc. The league is very embarrased by the $175 million because lots of teams want investors and this deal is not good for valuations.
http://cdn.js-kit.com/images/stars/admin-comment.png Michael Ozanianhttp://cdn.js-kit.com/images/icon10-external-url.png
Andrew: Here is what I got from someone who was looking to buy the Bobcats. The NBA wants Jordan to have the team. They feel he can reguild the brand quicker than anyone else. There were few people interested in the team because about one-third of the teams in the NBA are looking for investors and the economy is still bad. One bidder were willing to pay a bit more than Jordan, but not much. The $230 million or whatever figure that some are speculating on that Jordan is paying for the team is not includes about $70 million of working capital that the new owner would likely have to invest in the team over time to cover losses and improve the team. But the value of the team based on Jordan's deal is $175 million or a little less.How does an NBA franchise like the Bobcats go from $300 mil to $175 mil?


http://cdn.js-kit.com/images/stars/admin-comment.png Michael Ozanianhttp://cdn.js-kit.com/images/icon10-external-url.png
Guest: It took a lot of hard work. But they were able to do it with years of losses. Deal will include about $25 million of equity and assumption of $150 million of debt.

[spectre]

Could Bobcats be in Worthy's future? (http://www.gastongazette.com/sports/bobcats-44572-charlotte-future.html)


With his former University of North Carolina teammate and close friend Michael Jordan recently becoming the majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, Worthy says he has talked with Jordan about just such a possibility.

"He’s really interested in helping some people I know," Worthy said of Jordan. "He’s talked to myself. He’s talked to (former UNC teammate) Sam Perkins. When he gets ready to hire, he has our numbers. And I’m sure he’ll call people that are interested.

"I'll never say never. I'm still in Los Angeles primarily. But the more I get back here, I would entertain the thought."

Since Worthy has recently done work for the Los Angeles Lakers’ television network shows, does that mean he’d like to do the same in Charlotte?

"It wouldn’t be TV," said Worthy, who was in Gastonia promoting his foundation and other charities last Friday before the Lakers’ loss to the Bobcats. "It would be more front office-type stuff – player personnel, assistant GM (general manager), anything that he needs community-oriented. Michael’s busy, so he’s not going to get out as much. So those are the type of opportunities that he might offer up."

Worthy, who just turned 49, has often said he hoped to spend more time in this area as his two daughters have gotten older.

Still, no matter what Worthy does or doesn’t do for the Bobcats, he’s extremely confident in Jordan as a majority team owner.

Worthy says he’s known for years Jordan would pursue this in his post-playing career. Worthy said Jordan’s previous pursuits of ownership agreements with the Charlotte Bobcats, the Milwaukee Bucks, the Washington and finally the Bobcats have given Jordan experience that will prove beneficial.

"I knew that (ownership) was his goal and one of his wishes," said Worthy, a 1979 Ashbrook High graduate and Basketball Hall of Famer. "After he retired, he tried with Milwaukee, he tried with the Washington Wizards and he finally got a break. He’ll be a good owner. His infrastructure, if he keeps it intact, is good."
I've always liked James Worthy & Sam Perkins.

[Felton for Prez]

I would support Worthy becoming the show pony that Jordan doesn't want to be. Its not the same thing of course, but Worthy would be an excellent 2nd option.

[teej]

I like Worthy, he has a very solid rep leaguewide from what I can tell, and would be a great ambassador for the team in the Carolinas. Him and Perkins would be great hires, as long as we keep Rod around.

[spectre]

Should be filed under "I don't have a freaking clue"...

Chiding Michael Jordan (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Chiding-Michael-Jordan?urn=nba,226947)

As much as I deride some Charlotteans for wanting ownership to basically kiss their collective asses so they'll forget what that devil Shinn did to them, this is about as laughable in the other direction.

[King Taharqa]

WOW. So now Mike is getting beat up for being at the games. LOL. Articles like that are kinda why he didnt want to be the "dog & pony" show at the games. Its also the reason most sports owners keep a very low profile and dont want people to know who they are.

[spectre]

Not to get too OT...but according to the articles we had more than 18k at the game last night. For a Tuesday night that's not bad at all. I'm sure Flash being in town didn't hurt, but regardless the 'Cats are doing what they need to do in order to win everyone over.

Good stuff Charlotte. Keep it up.

[mj4life]

this a case of another writer who has no clue. you can question jordan's ability to run a team his insistence to have people he trust in postion of authority( like what business person wouldn't) it also makes me laugh the way that the national media just thinks the cats are when with mediocre team now but won't be in position to compete later mentality. never mind that no team has won a champioship in the free agency era except the lakers(shaq) Most teams are built through trades and some luck in the draft. even while the cats are close to the lux cap number they really only have two bad contracts on the team(chandler,diop) with chandler's set to expire after next season. and of the teams that are ahead of us in the standings only orlando, cleveland, and maybe atlanta look to be ahead of us long term every other team is hoping that they can sign free agents or are close to geting old(boston)

[Proudiddy]

All that yapping b/c of what MJ wears and where he sits??? WTF? That's a horrible article. How many NBA teams has this guy owned and successfully guided?

He's right about how Charlotte was spoiled both good and bad after the Hornets... But, there were plenty of fans, like me that were still happy to know we have a team. The Bobcats are my team, just as the Hornets were before, and I take pride in that.

MJ will do fine. And he can wear jeans with pre-torn holes, he's MJ, lol.

[Proudiddy]

Not to get too OT...but according to the articles we had more than 18k at the game last night. For a Tuesday night that's not bad at all. I'm sure Flash being in town didn't hurt, but regardless the 'Cats are doing what they need to do in order to win everyone over.

Good stuff Charlotte. Keep it up.

It got loud in the arena there at the end... Even the top was filled for the most part. Only a few empty seats peppered here and there, but for the most part the arena looked FULL, and you could hear it. My whole section was cheering and booing like crazy. That push off foul called on Boris' layup in the 4th was almost comical, lol.

We were all hyped yelling and clapping, and then we realized that mf'er had turned around and called it on him, lol... Those refs had to be scared for their safety and we let them know it was a horrible call. Although as someone pointed out, they did a good job of making up for it by not calling a few on Wade either, they let the guys play and DWade cried about it.

[King Taharqa]

Proudiddy I thought about you after the game last night. I know you were asking about the Heat game last week. Boy did you get to see a good one live. Sounds like you had a blast last night.

[Proudiddy]

Proudiddy I thought about you after the game last night. I know you were asking about the Heat game last week. Boy did you get to see a good one live. Sounds like you had a blast last night.

Yeah KT, it was awesome. I wish I would've known how many of us Bobcatsplanet guys were there, so we could've gotten up. I'm hoping to get up there more often, definitely for a playoff game! Haven't been able to come up very much b/c I'm in school full-time with a family, so it's hard to get up there. It was definitely a great one. Hadn't been up since 07, and it was a totally different atmosphere. We're on our way up in every way, and the fans see it.

DJ was killing last night and Raymond was clutch again. I really hope we hang onto both of them long-term, the Pacers would've gotten a steal of a trade had we let them "have" him. And Ray's crossover on Wade was priceless, just wish he would've finished it, lol. I can't wait to get back up there man.

[Keetch]

More MJ hating; this time from NBCSports.com

http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/

You may have to scroll down a bit.

Seriously uninformed writers putting junk out. I commented on the article and urge others to.

[ohara831]

Funny how they hammer him for not showing up, and then hammer him when he does. That entire article was just someone filling space with nonsense. Just a hater, that's all.

[Scottley Crue]

Should be filed under "I don't have a freaking clue"...

Chiding Michael Jordan (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Chiding-Michael-Jordan?urn=nba,226947)

As much as I deride some Charlotteans for wanting ownership to basically kiss their collective asses so they'll forget what that devil Shinn did to them, this is about as laughable in the other direction.

Where in the world did this come from? I hate to break it to this guy, but he doesn't run the world, so everything's not going to work out the way he wants it to all the time. Seriously, he clearly doesn't know anything about the situation, but he sure thinks he does. It honestly reads like somewhere along the line, Jordan broke his heart and now he's lashing out at him for being at games and playing HORSE....geez, what random things to get bent about.

He mentions Jordan putting on a show at the end of the bench...Jordan's just sitting there, cheering on his team. This guy is obviously paying way too much attention to one guy as opposed to the 10 out on the court.

[BRNC]

I read the "nbcsports" link article...I have to say that these folk are never going to give MJ a break...when anyone is "set up" to fail, regardless of what they do, they will always fail in those eyes...if we ever win a championship with MJ as owner this writer would still stick it to MJ...what absolute-unmitigated-BS...

[Toocool]

Perhaps Jordan is jumping up and down after a Felton 3 because he's more involved in the team and wants the team to SUCCEED? Maybe he's there because he put a significant amount of money into the franchise and he wants to encourage his players as much as possible and bring in more fans?

If I was MJ, I would be up and jumping if someone hits a clutch 3. Jordan's always been passionate about the game. Jordan has been a crap manager, but he's been turning it around. So maybe the one to grow up is the author.

[teej]

This is just jealousy of MJ's status as the greatest...people want to beat him up for anything. I'm just glad he's here, and hopefully he keeps everyone else out of sight and out of mind.

[teej]

Also, sorry for the double post, but I figured this was appropriate.

Warning: Explicit language

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7z_ztMxBgk&NR=1

[Scottley Crue]

Figured I'd add this here. This just helps make things offical.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=As3pTwMJ1IhNQ0eT_Kp.p4M5nYcB?slug=ap-bobcats-jordan&prov=ap&type=lgns

[spectre]

Bonnell with hard numbers (or close enough):

http://blogs.charlotte.com/inside_the_nba/2010/03/stern-nba-expected-to-approve-sale-of-bobcats-to-jordan.html


Speaking publicly for the first time since Jordan agreed to buy control of the team from Bob Johnson, Stern pegged the price at $275 million - $25 million less than Johnson originally agreed to pay for the expansion franchise in 2002.
In a telephone interview, Stern said that drop in value is appropriate, due to the circumstances.
"I think it’s fair to say it’s struggled in Charlotte,’’ Stern said. "There was a late start on the building’s naming rights and the local cable deal. It didn’t start as well as we would have liked or Bob Johnson would have liked.
"Between that and the general state of the economy, it was appropriately priced - $275 million is the right ballpark price of it.’’

[teej]

Bonnell with hard numbers (or close enough):

http://blogs.charlotte.com/inside_the_nba/2010/03/stern-nba-expected-to-approve-sale-of-bobcats-to-jordan.html

The inflated hard number. That's with the working capital and debt added in.

Still a big chunk of change.

[spectre]

The inflated hard number. That's with the working capital and debt added in.

Still a big chunk of change.

Good point...which gets us back to the 175 leaked earlier. So far as having to actually pull money out to pay Top Bob it's probably the 175 with him assuming the rest in debt.

[Muttley]

In Bonnell's Blog, Stern suggests that MJ's got some major plans that he wants to implement right away. And ideas what this might be? What can he really do right away?

My only thought is that maybe he wants to sign a guard, but Bobby J won't okay it, because he'd lose a little more money.

[spectre]

In Bonnell's Blog, Stern suggests that MJ's got some major plans that he wants to implement right away. And ideas what this might be? What can he really do right away?

My only thought is that maybe he wants to sign a guard, but Bobby J won't okay it, because he'd lose a little more money.

Someone JUST posted this on RGM:


@adfleischer: A source close to Larry Hugheshttp://images.intellitxt.com/ast/adTypes/2_bing.gif (http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?f=53&t=994972#) says it looks like he will sign with the Bobcats in the next day or two.:bowdown:

[Muttley]

Someone JUST posted this on RGM:
:bowdown:
Honestly, it was my very first thought after reading Bonnell's post! I was thinking, "man if they've waited this long to sign another guard, I'm sure Hughes has healed a good bit by now."

How reliable is this "adfleischer"? Also, is he Ari Fleischer? I hear he's involved in sports management now. (In fact, I hear he's Tiger's PR man now.

[spectre]

Heh, I have no idea...but it makes all sorts of sense.

Playing on that in a bigger way, for some strange giddy reason I think if we get into the playoffs MJ is going to pony up the cash...at least for a season or two while LB is here. If MJ goes so far as to flirt with the tax and we bring back both TT and Felton I'm taking the lollipop avatar down.

[Slam]

Heh, I have no idea...but it makes all sorts of sense.

Playing on that in a bigger way, for some strange giddy reason I think if we get into the playoffs MJ is going to pony up the cash...at least for a season or two while LB is here. If MJ goes so far as to flirt with the tax and we bring back both TT and Felton I'm taking the lollipop avatar down.
Thank God it looks like we wont have a draft pick this year because you might end up putting it straight back up again!!

;)

[Slam]

http://basketball.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/65328/20100312/report_hughes_will_sign_with_bobcats/

[spectre]

Thank God it looks like we wont have a draft pick this year because you might end up putting it straight back up again!!

;)


Heh, no doubt!

We'll still give more value than we should in trades but hell, so long as we keep improving like we have been I guess I'll need to let that go too?

[TheBeagle]

Thank God it looks like we wont have a draft pick this year because you might end up putting it straight back up again!!

;) HA! I literally LOLed on that one.