Well, it looks as if the Hornets will play some games here. I thought since the 'other' thread has gotten so lengthy, I would post another topic.

Are you glad that the Hornets may be coming to OKC - or not?

How do you think it will affect the city?

Do you think we will be thought of as greedy or opportunistic or just fortunate that we had an available venue and were prepared to offer a temporary arena?

Finally, will you support the team and purchase tickets?

My answers:

I'll be very glad if it is all finalized, that we are able to host the New Orleans Hornets in OKC.

I think OKC has a chance to be shown in a very positive light and I think the economic benefits will be many.

I hope that we are not thought of as being 'greedy'. I think most of us just want to offer a home to the Hornets because as we all know, they certainly need a welcoming place to recuperate after what many of the players and their families have gone through.

Even though I'm not a huge sports enthusiast but I might take in a few games - the kids will love it.

For decades, I have been telling people Oklahoma City could support major league sports just to get resistance from the nay sayers. Those people who have a can't do attitude. Frankly, I am tired of their negitave attitude.

This is an opportunity to prove them wrong as I know they are. I truly look forward to being able to say a very loud "I told you so."

Are we greedy? No. Any business will take any opportunity it is offered to gain business. In other words, the city is just excersising caviat emptor. (Seize the day). Should this move NOT be permanant, it will be a stepping stone. Should we be successful and draw a lot of people, we will probably get the next franchise.

So. Greedy? no.Just smart business.

I believe this city is wealthier than the average person living here may think. That being said, there is probably a different demographic of sports fans who will shell out a lot of money and be regular attendees at the games and I think corporate OKC will show up in a big way as well. I see this being a very successful run for OKC.

In other words, the city is just excersising caviat emptor. (Seize the day).
caveat emp·tor n. The axiom or principle in commerce that the buyer alone is responsible for assessing the quality of a purchase before buying.
[From Latin caveat http://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifmptor, let the buyer beware : caveat, third person sing. present subjunctive of cavhttp://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifre, to beware + http://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifmptor, buyer.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition

"Seize the day" — carpe diem
Enjoy the present and don't worry about the future, as in It's a beautiful day, so forget tomorrow's test — carpe diem! Latin for "seize the day," an aphorism found in the Roman writer Horace's Odes, this phrase has been used in English since the early 1800s.


The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

Are you glad that the Hornets may be coming to OKC - or not?

Yes very much. I think just being able to advertise our capability of hosting a major league team is a positive in and of itself. Beyond that, who knows? Only a complete lack of support would turn it into anything negative and I don't see that happening.

I also think the NBA is a good product. Better than the NHL, but without the scale of the NFL. It’s got good star power and draws from across demographics well.


How do you think it will affect the city?

Again, nothing but good, barring lack of support. I think it may highlight some of our shortcomings, i.e. luxury accommodations, upscale amenities, but I think that will be a good thing as well. It will bring to light that there is a demand for these things in OKC. It is good for us not only to show off what we can do, but it will help us realize what more can be done as well.


Do you think we will be thought of as greedy or opportunistic or just fortunate that we had an available venue and were prepared to offer a temporary arena?

No, I honestly don't think that we would be seen as greedy, unless there were some bold political moves that stated otherwise. I understand that some want to paint this as a simple business transaction, but it really is quite different. The situation was created by a catastrophic natural disaster. This was not the result of our leaders aggressively putting together an incentive package to entice a team from another market. This is an act of assistance. That doesn't mean that we don’t derive no benefit from it. It is a symbiotic relationship. One that helps the Hornets until they can fully assess their current infrastructure and market conditions, while OKC gets to showcase its capabilities and prepare for its role as a major league host in the future.

If it was in fact the result of simple market competition, then I don't think that any aggressive moves would be frowned upon. However, since this move will be inextricably associated with a very deadly and tragic disaster, I think that many normally suitable tactics do not apply here and would in fact be inappropriate. Despite the wishes of some here, I do not think that our leaders have acted in any appropriate way and, as such, I do not think the city will be seen as greedy.


Finally, will you support the team and purchase tickets?

Yes. I will find a away to at least go see games with star power. I may also try and get a group of friends together to split some season tickets. I think I might have some box opportunities, but it's impossible to say without knowing how that is going to play out as far as how many will be committed to previous box lessees and how many will be available for local support to purchase.

The NBA is a busy season and it would be hard to make every game, but I will certainly try to go to more than a handful.

caveat emp·tor n. The axiom or principle in commerce that the buyer alone is responsible for assessing the quality of a purchase before buying.
[From Latin caveat http://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifmptor, let the buyer beware : caveat, third person sing. present subjunctive of cavhttp://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifre, to beware + http://cache.lexico.com/dictionary/graphics/AHD4/GIF/emacr.gifmptor, buyer.]


The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition


"Seize the day" — carpe diem
Enjoy the present and don't worry about the future, as in It's a beautiful day, so forget tomorrow's test — carpe diem! Latin for "seize the day," an aphorism found in the Roman writer Horace's Odes, this phrase has been used in English since the early 1800s.



The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
You are correct about the term. I used the wrong term by mistake and never caught it. Carpe Diem is what I intended to use.

This is definetely good for the city. I am looking forward to seeing what happens. So far, it seems like the outside media thinks we are the best bet for the Hornets. I read an editorial from San Antonio saying as such. However I read the latest article from the Baton Rouge paper, and it seems like they are trying to paint us in a negative light.

Well, it looks as if the Hornets will play some games here. I thought since the 'other' thread has gotten so lengthy, I would post another topic

Are you glad that the Hornets may be coming to OKC - or not?.

I am. I think it's a fantastic opportunity. It'll provide for some great entertainment and memories. But personally, I see it as a moment for OKC to savor -- as a reward for gambling on MAPS, another step toward national status, and as a portal through which many people will see OKC for the first time outside of bombing images.


How do you think it will affect the city?

In terms of status, see above. In terms of the locals here, I don't know. So far I haven't seen a lot of excitement, but that may change when the deal is finalized and word spreads that it is happening for real. Otherwise, I don't see it changing life here too much. This is as much about PR as it is about entertainment. Economically, we'll see some increased spending in hotels and restaurants from people who otherwise wouldn't come. As far as local spending, some dollars will be diverted from other forms of entertainment, unless people take out the old plastic or dip into savings to pay for tickets. And I still don't think companies locate in a city because it has pro sports team. All of this rides on how long they do stay. And if the Hornets do, it will be seen as Mayor Cornett's signature accomplishment, following Humphreys' MAPS for Kids and Norick's MAPS.


Do you think we will be thought of as greedy or opportunistic or just fortunate that we had an available venue and were prepared to offer a temporary arena?

I know some will think we're being opportunistic; I think so. I haven't seen that in the message boards, though. OKC led the pack; once it "offered" the Ford Center, the other cities followed. Somebody had to be the first to do it. I think there's been less sniping because the other cities know in their hearts they wanted the Hornets too, once Katrina struck. In another light, it does show that OKC is coming out of its shell and willing to play hardball to make things happen. It's an assertive image I don't mind at all.


Finally, will you support the team and purchase tickets?

No question about it!

It seems like this is the only leadership Cornett has shown since becoming mayor. I'm glad he did it, but after saying we cannot host evacuees in our arenas -- and then jumping to get the NBA team -- it is transparently opportunistic.

Whatever. I'm glad we're getting the chance to try out the NBA, I'm just not too fired up about Mick.

He was also a big proponent of the Hotel Tax increase for the fair. I think that was a good thing. And what about the Skirvin?

Im a proud democrat and i think mick cornett has done great things for the city...i totally applaud him for the things he has done as mayor so far!

Well, it looks as if the Hornets will play some games here. I thought since the 'other' thread has gotten so lengthy, I would post another topic.

Are you glad that the Hornets may be coming to OKC - or not?

Yes


How do you think it will affect the city?

Only positive


Do you think we will be thought of as greedy or opportunistic or just fortunate that we had an available venue and were prepared to offer a temporary arena?

No, but if they do - who cares, they'll get over it.


Finally, will you support the team and purchase tickets?

You bet!! And I live in Seattle - but will surely make a few flights down to the city, esp when Shaq and maybe Seattle SuperSonics come to town!!


My answers:

I'll be very glad if it is all finalized, that we are able to host the New Orleans Hornets in OKC.

I think OKC has a chance to be shown in a very positive light and I think the economic benefits will be many.

I hope that we are not thought of as being 'greedy'. I think most of us just want to offer a home to the Hornets because as we all know, they certainly need a welcoming place to recuperate after what many of the players and their families have gone through.

Even though I'm not a huge sports enthusiast but I might take in a few games - the kids will love it.

One other note, this could surely be the catalyst to get some additional major downtown infrastructure we all have been talking about. Not necessarily the temporary relocation of the team itself nor even a permanent announcement. But the fact that downtown OKC WILL BE on national TV for a few games - some investor, tourist, business venture capitalist, on and on - WILL see the potential of this city and hopefully the city can capitalize on THAT!.

500 hotel rooms??? Try more like 4 times that! Tic and Tac downtown housing??? I expect the floodgates to suddenly open! Lack of retail?? Well, hopefully this can be an ACE card that the city can finally use to "convince the big retailers that we have a viable downtown that CAN support major leagues and the commerce it brings!

Like I say, This will only enable us to Continue the Renaissance!

It seems like this is the only leadership Cornett has shown since becoming mayor. I'm glad he did it, but after saying we cannot host evacuees in our arenas -- and then jumping to get the NBA team -- it is transparently opportunistic.

Whatever. I'm glad we're getting the chance to try out the NBA, I'm just not too fired up about Mick.

Although this is not the thread to discuss Mick Cornett, I will. He is working VERY hard to land an overdue major league franchise for the city (For those who call only major league "pro," we have had "pro" sports longer than all of us have been alive, I am referring to MAJOR league). He DID bring the Skirvin back, did pass the hotel tax, and more. He has done everything he said he wanted so far. And the most important? He is not rude like his predecessor.

Yes. I am glad we are finally being given a chance to prove the naysayers wrong. Just wait. the best is yet to come.

I agree with mranderson that Cornett is doing a fine job and is working hard to continue to make Oklahoma City a better place. Not every person agrees with 100% of things he does or doesn't do, but we also are not in his shoes having to deal with all the competing interests, roadblocks and economic or political realities that he must negotiate in the performance of his duties.

In fact, I think Oklahoma City has been blessed with three great mayors in a row!

Having said that, let's move any future comments about Cornett's job performance to a new thread and keep this thread on topic.

:backtotop

Here is one that REALLY chaps my hide.

Several people have expressed a nay sayer attitude about major league sports in Oklahoma City, however, when it becomes reality, those same people stand up and say "YES! It's about time." Humm. Why not just be positive from the start? Hipocritical if you ask me.:fighting2

What really chaps my hide are people whose hides are so easily chapped.
http://www.okctalk.com/images/Smailies%2001-28-08/fighting30.gif

Again, nothing but good, barring lack of support. I think it may highlight some of our shortcomings, i.e. luxury accommodations, upscale amenities, but I think that will be a good thing as well. It will bring to light that there is a demand for these things in OKC. It is good for us not only to show off what we can do, but it will help us realize what more can be done as well.


While I don't think it will bring any major employers here by itself, I do think it may spur some development downtown. The exposure WILL be good, and perhaps some capitalists will find the housing study on the Downtown OKC website. And if we generate good enough crowds on TV, they may bring in more diversions for Bricktown. That's part of the reason good crowds are so important; if they see lots of foot traffic downtown in person and on TV, they will be enticed to invest.

While I don't think it will bring any major employers here by itself, I do think it may spur some development downtown. The exposure WILL be good, and perhaps some capitalists will find the housing study on the Downtown OKC website. And if we generate good enough crowds on TV, they may bring in more diversions for Bricktown. That's part of the reason good crowds are so important; if they see lots of foot traffic downtown in person and on TV, they will be enticed to invest.
I agree. And the opposite is true as well. If the team is not sufficiently supported in attendance and community participation, it will hurt our image in a greater degree and prove in many outside people's minds that we are not a major league city.

I agree. And the opposite is true as well. If the team is not sufficiently supported in attendance and community participation, it will hurt our image in a greater degree and prove in many outside people's minds that we are not a major league city.

Yeah. So we better step up to the plate!!! This is it, folks. It's time to show what we've got.

Well, I would say that I'm more apathetic to this than I am a naysayer. I don't really care one way or the other about getting an NBA team here. If we eventually get one, fine, yay for us. If not, well that's fine too. I'll continue to enjoy living here either way. :sofa:

This is strictly to provoke your thinking.

The city of Oklahoma City is paying the relocation expenses and some related items for the relocation of the Hornets. As a business savy person, I do not see why they would go to that expense if something was not brewing long term. It makes no sense to me why they would spend all that money for a team that only had short term plans.

This is strictly to provoke your thinking.

The city of Oklahoma City is paying the relocation expenses and some related items for the relocation of the Hornets. As a business savy person, I do not see why they would go to that expense if something was not brewing long term. It makes no sense to me why they would spend all that money for a team that only had short term plans.
Simple. It's an investment that anticipates an immediate economic impact to the community. It would be unwise to infer anything more than that.

Simple. It's an investment that anticipates an immediate economic impact to the community. It would be unwise to infer anything more than that.

Still. For one season, it does not sound logical to invest all that money. I have a STRONG feeling something is brewing.

(OOPS, LOOKS LIKE WE WERE POSTING AT THE SAME TIME - WELL - DITTO)

It's no secret that the Hornets coming here, even temporarily, will bring huge profits to the city and bring much business to the area. Tax revenues, hotel occupancies, restaurant diners, events attendance, etc will all be increased. That is probably the reason that OKC is paying some of the expenses.

Still. For one season, it does not sound logical to invest all that money. I have a STRONG feeling something is brewing.
To you, maybe not. But as a small business owner, if presented the opportunity for a decent return, I'm not afraid to make the initial investment. There is nothing that unusual with what the city is doing, even in light of a temporary move. Consider it seed money — money for an immediate economic return as well as helping present OKC in the best possible light for possible future expansion and/or relocation, as you've so often mentioned. Inferring anything more is wild speculation.

To you, maybe not. But as a small business owner, if presented the opportunity for a decent return, I'm not afraid to make the initial investment. There is nothing that unusual with what the city is doing, even in light of a temporary move. Consider it seed money — money for an immediate economic return as well as helping present OKC in the best possible light for possible future expansion and/or relocation, as you've so often mentioned. Inferring anything more is wild speculation.

The city of Oklahoma City is not a small business. They would be similar to a large business. The Mayor and City Council as the board of directors, the citizens as the stockholders and the employees... Well, all 4,000 plus are just that. Staff. A large business does not spend money for nothing. Granted. There will be immediate gain, however, I know enough about large business (I was raised around it and politics) to know something HAS to be brewing. No one will convince me otherwise.

The city of Oklahoma City is not a small business. They would be similar to a large business. The Mayor and City Council as the board of directors, the citizens as the stockholders and the employees... Well, all 4,000 plus are just that. Staff. A large business does not spend money for nothing. Granted. There will be immediate gain, however, I know enough about large business (I was raised around it and politics) to know something HAS to be brewing. No one will convince me otherwise.
I didn't say OKC was a small business. But certain business principles apply in either case. Before starting this business, I worked for corporate America, so I'm not ignorant about how large business works. I've seen corporations take bigger gambles with less chance of a return on short-term deals than what Oklahoma City is looking at. It's not outside the realm of reasonable business practice (with all due respect to your knowledge and experience with business). I'm not saying something isn't brewing; I'm simply saying that there's not enough there to reasonably infer it. Anything else is guessing, even if it is an "expert" guess.


No one will convince me otherwise.
Based off everyone's experience, no one would expect otherwise.

I know enough about large business (I was raised around it and politics) to know something HAS to be brewing. No one will convince me otherwise.

Why even pose a question about it then if you know something HAS to brewing and no one can convince you otherwise?

So you can say 'I told you' again so if they do become permanent? Maybe they will and maybe they won't, but the question was regarding why the city is paying relocation costs. The question was answered that the city will make an immediate profitable return.

I'm not trying to be mean but if a child is raised by a doctor do they not have to attend medical school and have some practical experience to know how to practice medicine even if their dad is a doctor?

I don't know about you, but I don't care if my airline pilot's dad, grandfather and great-grandfather flew as fighter pilots in every war known to man, he/she better have taken an airline piloting training course or two and attended flight school before I'll fly in that plane! You see my point don't you?

Why even pose a question about it then if you know something HAS to brewing and no one can convince you otherwise?

So you can say 'I told you' again so if they do become permanent? Maybe they will and maybe they won't, but the question was regarding why the city is paying relocation costs. The question was answered that the city will make an immediate profitable return.

I'm not trying to be mean but if a child is raised by a doctor do they not have to attend medical school and have some practical experience to know how to practice medicine even if their dad is a doctor?

I don't know about you, but I don't care if my airline pilot's dad, grandfather and great-grandfather flew as fighter pilots in every war known to man, he/she better have taken an airline piloting training course or two and attended flight school before I'll fly in that plane! You see my point don't you?

Ok. Name one city that got a major league sports franchise for only one year with the knowlege it was for only that year. This is a very rare occurance. I know of no team in history that relocated knowlingly for only one year except the Houston Oilers when they had agreed to permanant status in Nashville but were in Memphis for a year or two until the satdium was finished. So, the examples do not apply in this case since it is not customary for cities to get to "try on for size" a franchise.

I understand what you are saying. It just does not apply to sports franchsies.

You know much more about sports than I do - I can't even tell you who plays for the Hornets! I hope you are right about them staying but this is a different circumstance because of the hurricane.

Who knows? I'm happy that they are coming here for even a short time. I hope the tickets aren't too outrageous. Do you know what they will run?

No ticket prices announced yet, however, the Mayor has said they will be a variety of prices which will include tickets most people can afford.

Oh. By the way. We may be a trivia and Jeopardy question.

They were the only major league sports franchise to move for only one year due to natural disaster. Answer: Who are the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets? Or They are the only city to ever host a displaced Major league sports franchise by temporary move. Answer: Who is Oklahoma City?

It makes no sense to me why they would spend all that money for a team that only had short term plans.

It's simply about ROI. Do we know the actual numbers? How much money are we talking and what is its percentage of the estimated revenue based on the short term deal?


This is a very rare occurrence. I know of no team in history that relocated knowlingly for only one year except the Houston Oilers when they had agreed to permanant status in Nashville but were in Memphis for a year or two until the satdium was finished.

EXACTLY. I know of no team in history that had to relocate because it's entire city and its infrastructure were wiped out, let alone heavy damage to its own facilities. This is a very rare occurrence, indeed.


A large business does not spend money for nothing.

:LolLolLol

Now you're just being silly, especially considering that was a metaphor for government.

But seriously, it would make sense from a business perspective for the city and state to spend some money on a temporary relocation given its estimated economic impact. However, if that amount of money is too big gievn the returns of a one year deal, then you may have a point. Of course, it also might make sense to take a loss on this one year deal in hopes of securing a long term deal with another organization.

the only city to ever host a displaced Major league sports franchise by temporary move

What is SanAntonio.

The Saints are operating out of SA right now.

Here's some more perspective from a Sooner Football associated board:

http://mb12.scout.com/fouinsiderfrm14.showMessage?topicID=42382.topic

What is SanAntonio.

The Saints are operating out of SA right now.

Exception noted. I forgot they beat us. Change it to the first NBA franchise instead of major league.

From a USA Today article:

If the team moves to Oklahoma City, it is expected to relocate 100 employees from Louisiana and also hire 50 people locally to do a "rapid ramp-up" of telemarketing and ticket sales promotions.
Combined with the players, the team would bring an approximate $50 million payroll to the state — an incentive, Cornett told The Oklahoman, for the state to share in providing support for the teams expenses.

YES, I will be going to as many game as money and school will allow me too. You can count on me being there when houston and dallas come to town. Hopefully with the hornets coming here it will change the perception of oklahoma being a one sport state(football) even though it is somewhat true. I am still mad that we still haven't landed a mls team.

Actually. Oklahoma has not been known just for football for at least 20 years. Ou and OSU have made names for themselves in basketball for many years, being among the top rated teams in the nation.

And Hockey. The Blazers are nationally known for their performace and draw.

You know much more about sports than I do - I can't even tell you who plays for the Hornets!

Don't worry, you'd have to know A LOT about sports to know who's on the Hornets. :tweeted:

The Blazers are nationally known for their performace and draw.

What nation is that?

:)

What nation is that?

:)

LOL, I was thinking the same thing.

Maybe Mr. A was referring to minor league hockey officials who see the Blazers as the flagship team of the league -- the "most successful minor league franchise in the country".

Vote set on Hornets’ lease

By Bryan Dean, Steve Lackmeyer, John Sutter and Michael McNutt
The Oklahoman

Oklahoma City, the state and a group of local investors will share risks and rewards under a proposed lease that would have the NBA Hornets play at the Ford Center.
Agreement details

The Oklahoma City Council will vote on a proposed agreement between the city and the New Orleans Hornets NBA Limited Partnership in an 8:30 a.m. meeting today in the third floor council chamber at City Hall, 200 N Walker.

The proposed agreement between the city of Oklahoma City and the New Orleans Hornets NBA Limited Partnership calls for the city, state and a private business group to share both the risks and potential benefits of the Hornets playing at Ford Center. The city’s total potential cost would be $5.3 million that would be paid from its general fund and reserves. The city could make money if the franchise does extremely well.

The following numbers are based on the assumption that all 41 home games are played at Ford Center. The numbers would be adjusted for any games played in Louisiana:

According to Mayor Cornett and the lease, the target revenue for the franchise is $40 million - 105 percent of last season’s documented team local revenues, excluding broadcast rights. If revenues fall below that, the team will be compensated up to $10 million by the city, the Oklahoma Capital Investment Board and a private partnership led by local businessman Clayton I. Bennett.

If revenues exceed $40 million, the city would recoup its initial “reimbursable expenses” of up to $2 million from the next $2.5 million earned.

Those reimbursable expenses are:

# $500,000 for housing expenses for team staff.

# $300,000 for setting up offices for team operations.

# $200,000 for capital improvements to the Ford Center (new NBA floor, locker room modifications).

# $1 million for game day expenses (ushers, security, arena operations).

If revenues exceed $42.5 million, the team will get half the profit and the city, state and Bennett’s group will share the other half.

Other lease highlights:

Up to 108 furnished apartments would be provided for Hornets staff near Oklahoma Christian University. The city will seek reimbursement from Federal Emergency Management Agency for housing costs. The city would provide 25,000 square feet of office space, most likely in a downtown location. The Hornets are responsible for locating places to train and practice.

Temporary relocation agreement
More New Orleans Hornets coverage
Hurricane Katrina coverage
How to help

Oklahoma City Council members will vote this morning on the deal, which would give the team an option to renew for another season.

Incentives include a $10 million revenue-shortfall cushion to be covered by the city, the Oklahoma Capital Investment Board and a private partnership, Mayor Mick Cornett and City Manager Jim Couch said.

Cornett said the three groups are mindful of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation of New Orleans, the reason the team can’t play in its home city.

“All emotions are tempered by the manner in which this whole thing unfolded,” Cornett said. “At the same time, I think the message to our citizens is they need to support this team with everything they’ve got.”

The proposed lease would allow the city to profit if the franchise’s revenues exceed $42.5 million. That amount could be less if any games are played in Louisiana.

Cornett and Couch said the Hornets likely will play 36 of their 41 home games at the Ford Center, with the remaining five to be played in Louisiana.

The city, the state and a group of investors, Oklahoma Professional Sports LLC, led by local businessman Clayton I. Bennett, will split a potential $10 million risk, which is triggered if the franchise falls below its $40 million target.

Besides Bennett, who is president of Dorchester Capital, Oklahoma Professional Sports LLC members also are Chesapeake Energy Corp’s co-founders, Chief Executive Officer Aubrey K. McClendon and Chief Operating Officer and President Tom L. Ward; and G. Jeffrey Records Jr., chairman & CEO, MidFirst Bank.

Bennett, who led an unsuccessful 1997 effort to land a National Hockey League expansion team for Oklahoma City, said the NBA’s decision to try out the Ford Center recognizes 15 years of investment by community leaders and residents.

“It’s been a dream for a long, long time,” Bennett said. “I’ve long believed we were on the track of becoming a major-league city. I believe we’re there.”

The team, Bennett said, will come to mean “something very important” to the community and symbolize Oklahoma City’s progress in achieving greatness.

The city will spend $2 million on improvements to the Ford Center, housing for Hornets staff and game day expenses such as security and ushers. Those expenses will be reimbursed if the team exceeds its target by a sufficient amount.

“The tangible dollars to me work,” Cornett said. “There is so much financial impact from an NBA team through tourism and parking, I think it could easily offset any financial exposure we have.”

There are also intangible benefits. Cornett said Oklahoma City will get worldwide exposure because of the NBA.

“It’s that association of equality with New York, Los Angeles, (Salt Lake City,) Utah - these are cities that people aspire to associate with,” Cornett said.

“The NBA itself has such a worldwide impact. When the Rockets are playing your team, (because of Chinese superstar Yao Ming) you almost have a Super Bowl-like audience. Your city is being shown to this audience that is not going to be open to your city under normal circumstances.”

Some of the details still aren’t worked out. Cornett said he has tried to be sensitive to the city of New Orleans and its residents while looking out for his city’s best interest.

“We tried to conduct ourselves in a manner where the NBA would walk away from this experience saying, ‘Man we liked working with those guys.’”

The deal is unique because it is for only one year. Cornett said the city’s financial risk is less than most NBA cities.

“I would imagine that any other NBA city would love to have this deal,” Cornett said. “But we are only having them for one season, and they’re gone.”

However, the deal does include a one-year renewal clause at the Hornets’ option that would guarantee the team the same deal for the 2006-2007 season.

One sensitive issue is what the team will be called.

Cornett said Oklahoma City won’t be noted in the team’s name for any games played in Louisiana. But when the Hornets play in Oklahoma City, they will officially be known as the N.O./Oklahoma City Hornets.

The NBA is expected to announce ticket prices and address other issues, including team uniforms, today.

“I wanted to make sure that we had some affordable tickets so that kids in Oklahoma City could figure out how to get to a game,” Cornett said. “The NBA is leaning in that direction. That’s going to happen.”

State officials have been involved in two areas of the agreement: repealing the sales tax on ticket sales and finding a mechanism to use state money to help share the city of Oklahoma City’s risk if revenues from the Hornets fall short of expectations.

Repealing the sales tax on tickets to Hornets games will require legislative approval, said state Treasurer Scott Meacham, who also serves as secretary of revenue and finance on Gov. Brad Henry’s Cabinet.

Such legislative action wouldn’t require lawmakers to come back in special session, said Meacham, who has been involved in talks with the city about the NBA franchise.

Legislators could pass a bill in next year’s session and make it retroactive to the start of the NBA season, Meacham said. He expected the measure to pass.

Gov. Brad Henry, House Speaker Todd Hiett, R-Kellyville, and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan, D-Stillwater, “have all been involved with and are all supportive” of the measure, Meacham said.

“This is one of those deals we all are in agreement on and working together on,” Meacham said.

Meacham said the agreement with the Hornets poses a low risk to the city and to the state.

All the Hornets’ employees - including the players - would have to pay state income tax, Meacham said.

“You gain obviously all of that payroll,” he said. “So there’s some pretty big salaries that we would earn state income tax on.”

The Hornets will be here for one year guaranteed. They then have a 2nd year option, depending on how this season goes and the rebuilding/redevelopment of New Orleans.

Karried, here are three names for you: Chris Paul, JR Smith & David West. Keep an eye out for JR Smith -- he's a fresh 20 y/o and a stud.

It's nice to have Mr. Bennett on board. He's been very involved in the local sports scene and is one of the best business minds we have.

He also has a lot of cash on hand from the recent sale of Leadership Square and Oklahoma Tower.

Also nice to see (and expected) the big dogs from Chesapeake stepping up, as well as Mr. Records at MidFirst.

Yeah, it's great to see the corporate support jump that quickly. I'm sure some more bigwigs will consider joining in support when they see the prominent local names already associated with the Hornets.

I just wanted to convey that I am VERY EXCITED about this opportunity for our city. My post didn't do a very good job of conveying that emotion.

I just wish we had done more the evacuees.