GEORGE SHINN TO SELL CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS

          Charlotte Knights and Hornets Owner George Shinn said
     yesterday he is looking to sell his AAA franchise to local
     owners who would keep the team in the area yesterday,
     according to Stan Olson of the CHARLOTTE OBSERVER.  Shinn
     bought the team in '88 and at the time said he expected MLB
     to eventually expand into Charlotte.  Yesterday, Shinn said,
     "I don't think this market is quite ready for major-league
     baseball at this point in time."  Olson: "Shinn's decision
     may be based partially on his attempt to purchase the
     Charlotte Coliseum from the city -- the money from the
     Knights sale could be put toward that -- and also to get his
     Women's NBA franchise off the ground.  Additionally, he
     continues to look for an NHL franchise for Norfolk, Va"
     (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 5/16).