UNIV. OF MD EXTENDS MARKETING DEAL WITH SFX'S ISI

          The Univ. of MD (UM) "is unlikely to have" a $25M
     naming rights partner for a new basketball arena and
     convocation center in place before the MD legislative
     session begins next month, according to Mark Asher of the
     WASHINGTON POST.  The state "is expected" to appropriate
     $45M toward the $90M project "if a naming-rights deal is
     made" or "alternative financing" is found.  Construction on
     the project "will not begin without" the state funds.  One
     source said naming rights talks are moving "at a snail's
     pace" because of the Holiday season.  UM Dean & VP Bill
     Destler said talks have been held with "two or three"
     companies, which sources identify as Comcast Corp., Enron
     Energy and Discovery Communications.  Meanwhile, UM AD
     Debbie Yow said that the athletic department "intends to
     extend its contract" with SFX Sports Group's ISI to assist
     on corporate sponsorship deals.  The department's contract
     with ISI expired November 30 (WASHINGTON POST, 12/15).