As expected on Thursday, the NBA decided to lockout its players, as the two sides are far apart as they attempt to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. The old agreement expired at 9 p.m. PDT on June 30, so while the two sides deliberate, we wait. In the meantime, maybe we can look at the new, boring NBA.com, with no references whatsoever to any teams or NBA players.
NBA deputy commissioner Adam Silver cried poor earlier Thursday:
The expiring collective bargaining agreement created a broken system that produced huge financial losses for our teams. We need a sustainable business model that allows all 30 teams to be able to compete for a championship, fairly compensates our players, and provides teams, if well-managed, with an opportunity to be profitable.
I'm sure there are compelling arguments for both sides, but when a current agreement is in place in which players get paid 57% of revenues, why should that change? If revenues go up or down, the players revenue will change accordingly as a function of the system. It seems that owners are looking to guarantee themselves a profit with their latest proposal, so until they come back down to Earth a deal won't get done anytime soon.
Derek Fisher of the Lakers is president of the players union, and addressed his fans and subjects via Twitter on Thursday night. "To all our players: you have my word that I will do all I can to find a fair resolution. Nothing less," Fisher said. "To the fans: each of our players thanks u for your continued support & loyalty. Hopefully we can find middle ground & continue to bring you the game you love so much!"
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