Columbus mayor wants NBA team

[NYBuckeye96]

http://www.zanesvilletimesrecorder.com/ ... nav%7Chead

Columbus mayor wants NBA team

COLUMBUS -- Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman has informed the NBA that Ohio's largest city wants to become home to a professional basketball team now that the city and surrounding county have bought Nationwide Arena.

A report said Coleman sent a letter to NBA Commissioner David Stern expressing interest in moving a franchise to Columbus or adding a new team.

NBA Vice President of Communications Tim Frank said he wouldn't comment. He said there are no plans to expand, and no teams have applied to relocate.

Columbus officials would face big challenges in luring a team, including finding financial support and standing out from other possible locations. They'd have to consider the city's professional hockey team, the Blue Jackets, and the proximity to another NBA team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are just 140 miles from Columbus.


Coleman cited the metropolitan area's 2 million people and 15 Fortune 1000 companies as draws to Columbus, AP reports.

[Orange and Brown]

Not gonna happen unless the Cavs move a little South to columbus

[LICKING COUNTY FAN]

I would like seeing it happen, but if they take the cheap route like they do with the Blue Jackets it won't work.

Bring in a bunch of has been or never was free agents is something the fans are tired of with the NHL team, and no way do I think they will be open for it with a NBA team.

[3morethan2]

I think it could happen, not in the near future though..i just don't see Columbus as a type of city with an NBA team

[C-Bolt]

Too close to Cleveland and the NBA don't want no part in competing against the Buckeyes.

[LICKING COUNTY FAN]

I think Cincy should try and get a team again.

[dazed&confused]

Share some home games with the Cavs and the Blue Jackets. Win-win (if you can attach the win label to either franchise).