In today's CHICAGO TRIBUNE, Terry Armour examines the
possibility that Michael Jordan's role in the NBA labor dispute
could "tarnish his Teflon image." Bob Williams, President of
Burns Sports: "Jordan's image is fine right now. But if the
whole season or part of it is lost, he is taking a calculated
risk. Michael has virtually nothing to gain and could
potentially have everything to lose." Nova Lanktree, President
of Lanktree Sports: "Michael Jordan isn't out in the marketplace
seeking new deals, so this won't damage him. But being a
spokesman for this controversial issue is making people start to
ask, 'What is he doing this for?'" TEAM MARKETING REPORT's Alan
Friedman: "Fans in all sports, regardless of who the athlete is,
are tired of seeing their heroes in suits. They think they
should see a guy in a suit maybe twice -- when he signs his
contract and when he retires. Still, I would have to say that
Michael is beyond reproach. He transcends any kind of negative
thoughts that come with being a labor leader, if that's indeed
what he is" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 8/18).
