MAMA MIA! RICK PITINO A MARKETING DARLING IN THE NORTH END?

          The marketing of Rick Pitino is examined by Joan
     Vennochi of the BOSTON GLOBE.  While the Celtics "can't
     obligate Pitino to promote anything on their behalf," the
     two sides have a "gentleman's agreement to avoid conflicting
     sponsorship deals."  Pitino's contract gives him the right
     to negotiate his own deals, which, he says, he'll decide
     upon "on a case-by-case basis."  Vennochi writes that the
     Celtics have "built their ticket sales promotion around
     Pitino," and that Citizens Financial Group, expected to take
     over the Celtics' banking business, has also "negotiated for
     the right to market Pitino along with the team."  A deal
     with Citizens is "expected later this week."  While Pitino
     gave 40 to 50 speeches at the Univ. of KY, he now "expects
     to give fewer -- 'probably less than 15' -- because of the
     demands of the NBA schedule" (BOSTON GLOBE, 10/1).