Cavaliers Leverage New Local RSN For Better FSN Ohio Deal

LeBron’s Popularity Continues To Grow In Asian Markets

FSN Ohio will pay the Cavaliers “an estimated $25[M] in its new broadcast contract,” more than double what the net paid under its previous deal and “one of the four richest TV contracts in the NBA,” according to Roger Brown of the Cleveland PLAIN DEALER. The presence of the Indians’ new RNS, SportsTime Ohio, “gave the Cavs a big hammer in their contract talks with FSN Ohio” (PLAIN DEALER, 8/14).

SECOND COMING: In Cleveland, Mary Schmitt Boyer noted the Cavaliers F LeBron James’ popularity “has grown in Asia in general, and China in particular.” The Cavaliers “are exploring options” for Cleveland-based Erie Chinese News reporter Bao Renjun’s “involvement with their Web site.” Last season, he did a story on Chinese C Mengke Bateer, who tried to make the Cavaliers roster. Bao: “More and more Chinese media are interested in LeBron. ... Last season, I covered the Cavs and LeBron for almost all the Chinese media. Now, I am talking to the only national TV in China, CCTV. We are investigating the possibility of sending a live voice to China when they televise the Cavs home games.” More Bao: “Chinese can see LeBron’s commercials on TV for Nike and Sprite. ... Almost every [Chinese] sports Web site has a column or blog designed exclusively for LeBron” (Cleveland PLAIN DEALER, 8/13).