I know far too well how unpopular it is to support the players during a lockout, as most hard working Americans do not have any sympathy for those living the professional athlete lifestyle.
While the NFL may miss some pre-season games, they are destined to come up with a way that allows an equitable division of some $9 billion. The NBA situation is indeed a different enigma, and as hoops junkies like myself cross our fingers and hope for a resolution to the impasse that controls the game we love, I have a message for the elite superstars of the game: get involved with the negotiations, stay involved and make your presence felt as a collective force to be reckoned with.
I’m talking to Kobe, Lebron, Dwight Howard and Kevin Durant.
You fellows are the ones who sell the most tickets, move the most merchandise, and cast a shadow that is far greater than that of your teammates and even the owners. I know Commissioner David Stern would like us all to believe he is in charge, but in reality, you are the ones who can really make the difference if you are willing to get down to the business of basketball and foster an agreement.
Speaking of the agreement itself, do not forget the countless retired players who made your dream possible, and do what you can to enhance the pension and health benefits they have. You should also do all you can to protect the balance of your teammates, as they cannot command the maximum contracts that you enjoy. Yes, your money is guaranteed, but theirs is not, so work for a deal that provides some security for them as well. Be cognizant of the enormous amounts of revenue that is generated globally by the NBA and get those numbers in line with the percentage you settle for.
Make every effort to implement a provision that puts inner city kids in good seats at every game, courtesy of both the players union and the owners. I am talking about the young people that buy your jerseys and sneakers and wear them in tribute to you as well as a fashion statement.
Too often we do not see them sitting in good seats at a game, and that it is a travesty. Do not allow attorneys and accountants to be the focal point at the bargaining table, as that is where you as the most visible players in the game rightfully belong.
It all sounds easy enough, but it will be a struggle to say the least. You must demand that the billionaire owners you work for be honest in their financial assessment of the business you make possible with your talents. Look them in the eye and ask them a most compelling question: if these franchises are so unprofitable, why is there always a willing bidder waiting to buy one quickly? Do not allow their ability to run the golden goose into the ground with unsound fiscal management to determine your future.
Just as being a successful college player does not guarantee a great NBA career, being successful in the corporate board room does not guarantee they will be successful as owners. I know from meeting you and interviewing you at Pacers games that you are bright and articulate men, capable of many things beyond the basketball floor. In my opinion, you are indeed the chosen ones to remind the owners of just that and then some. This is much more important than a championship ring.
It is your livelihood and your future. Do not let this off season slip by without making your presence felt.
Danny Bridges, who feels the NBA lockout will be a protracted, ugly mess, can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
