Shinn Says Fan Support Will Be Factor In Lease Extension

Shinn Says He Is Open To Long- Term Lease Extension In New Orleans

Hornets Owner George Shinn said that if the franchise can get “sufficient fan support in New Orleans, he would be in favor of a long-term lease extension with the state beyond the current 2012 expiration date,” according to John Reid of the New Orleans TIMES-PICAYUNE.  Shinn said that he has had talks with Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco on a “variety of issues to help ensure the team’s success.”  Shinn: “We’ve been talking about everything from lease extension to putting together a stronger package that would give us a little safety net.”  He indicated that a proposed training center that would be attached to New Orleans Arena also “will be a factor in determining the team’s long-term commitment.”  Shinn said that the Hornets are “pushing for 10,000 season-ticket holders this season.”  The team announced earlier this month that it has signed 5,000 season-ticket holders and has not yet started sales of half-season packages (New Orleans TIMES-PICAYUNE, 6/23).