Union leader Hunter disputes NBA's financial projections, preparing for lockout

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.startribune.com/sports/wolves/98449149.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUqPk4DyCc75DiUiacyKUUr

By BRIAN MAHONEY , Associated Press

Last update: July 14, 2010 - 10:15 PM

NEW YORK - Insisting that the NBA's financial projections "strain credulity," players' association executive director Billy Hunter said Wednesday he's seen nothing to change his belief that a lockout is possible.

Hunter disputes commissioner David Stern's forecast of nearly $400 million in losses this season, countering that the league's basketball-related revenues increased to their highest point ever in 2009-10.

"Our position is that David is mistaken," Hunter told The Associated Press, adding he believes things are "much, much better than they maintain."

The league's collective bargaining agreement expires next summer. The sides have started negotiations toward a new one but remain far apart, creating fears of the first work stoppage since 1998-99.

"I'm preparing for a lockout right now and I haven't seen anything to change that notion. Hopefully I'll see something over the next several months," Hunter said. "As of this moment, it's full speed ahead for me in preparing the players for a worst-case scenario."

FULL story at link.

[DJ13]

1. I dont know who to support in this

I do know that both sides have escalated pay, and as a result the average fans are getting priced out of the market to watch games in person.

The entire league needs a moratorium on increases in both pay and profits to the owners.