FRANCHISE NOTES

     New 76ers President Pat Croce intends to "hold the line" on
ticket prices when the team moves into the CoreStates Center next
season.  Croce reportedly wants "very much to create a level of
goodwill with the area's basketball community" and is preparing a
brochure explaining a benefits package for season ticket holders
(PHILADELPHIA DAILY NEWS, 4/23)....The CFL Rough Riders have
secured $500,000 in corporate deals for the coming season
enabling them to field a team for the upcoming season (Toronto
GLOBE & MAIL, 4/23)....The Sharks are considering a switch in top
minor league affiliates after their deal with the IHL K.C. Blades
expires at the end of this year.  Lexington, KY's AHL team is a
possibility (SAN JOSE MERCURY NEWS, 4/23).