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August 9, 2009
Uncertainty for the Nets and Atlantic Yards
Those who have been following the Atlantic Yards fight for the last few years may recall a time when the proposed project was a "done deal." Strong opposition has made project supporters worry about the future.
The Cleveland Leader, LeBron James Says "Fill in the Blanks" When Asked About Free Agency Next Season
In this item, the team is seen as definitely moving, but only "in the coming years."
It was bad news for Cleveland Cavaliers fans but hardly shocking. LeBron James implied at the launch of his new shoe the Air Max LeBron VII that he plans to test the free agent waters next season. He stated:
"I signed a contract in 2006 with an option. It would make no sense for me to sign that contract if I didn't keep my options open. I'll let you fill in the blanks."
Many observers feel that unless the Cavs win a championship, the Akron native will bolt to New York City to play for either the New York Knicks or New Jersey Nets who will be moving to Brooklyn in the coming years.
Hoopsworld, NBA Teams: Who's Moving Where?
Here, an arena in Brooklyn will "eventually be built."
The Nets still hope to begin building (and sell $850 in bonds to back construction costs) by the end of the year, but the trip over the Hudson River is proving far more complicated than anyone could imagine.
In February of 2007 things looked like they were about to get under way—then someone hit the breaks
The economy plummeted, citizen groups protested the project and everything became gridlocked with legalities. Debates over eminent domain ensued all the while Nets Owner Bruce Ratner was rumored to be looking for investors to help fund the project.
The good news for Ratner and the Nets is that Mayor Michael Bloomberg is on their side. And, assuming he holds onto that post, the local government should remain accommodating.
Even though there is the perfectly new Prudential Center (home of the NHL's Devils) sitting in Newark, the Nets desire an arena of their own. Even if the Atlantic Yards project doesn't reflect architect Frank Gehry's original design, the Barclays Center will eventually be built.
Currently the Nets rank 25th in the NBA in attendance while playing in East Rutheford's Izod Center.
Sporting News, Interview with Nets Center Brook Lopez
For this item, the "team may not ever be headed to Brooklyn."
Now that Vince Carter is no longer with New Jersey, and the team may not ever be headed to Brooklyn, it's all about moving on. With the exception of All-Star Devin Harris, no player is more important to their future than center Brook Lopez. After going No. 10 overall in the 2008 draft, the Stanford product worked hard, earned minutes, and finished the year as one of the league's most promising young big men. Along with his brother Robin, Brook's currently in Dallas, serving as a mentor to the Latin American team at the adidas Nations camp.
Posted by steve at August 9, 2009 8:07 AM