The CBA and New Line TV have entered into a multi-year
partnership designed to build the CBA into a national brand
through TV, licensing and sponsorship opportunities. The
Time-Warner studio will work with the league to create a new
"look" which will encompass logos, uniforms, in-stadium
elements and broadcast features. In addition to game
programming, New Line and the league will also develop
"alternative themed and targeted" TV programming featuring
CBA players and stories (CBA/New Line). The HOLLYWOOD
REPORTER's Stephen Battaglio writes that New Line "will have
to help the CBA secure" a TV deal "so that viewers can see
those stories." New Line "will seek a deal for a game-of-
the-week venue and playoff coverage." Chris Russo, New Line
Exec VP/Franchise Programing & Marketing, said that TV plans
"could include microphones on the court, in the locker room
and even on team buses." He added that New Line's
developmental programming around the CBA could "include
documentaries, specials, children's shows and even dramatic
series to be generated by the up-and-coming players and
coaches who pass through the league." Terms of the deal
were not disclosed (HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, 8/20).
WASHED-UP: The CBA FL Beachdogs were disbanded as team
Owner Rick Rochon told the league that "he was closing shop
after losing more than" $4M in 15 months, according to Larry
Lebowitz of the Fort Lauderdale SUN-SENTINEL. The Beachdogs
become the third CBA team to "fold during the offseason,"
joining Oklahoma City and Omaha, leaving the league with
nine teams. All season-ticket holders and corporate
sponsors will receive refunds (SUN-SENTINEL, 8/20).
