Quote of the Day
"You can't keep putting this issue off because you're headed toward crisis."
-- Vikings VP/Public Affairs & Stadium Development Lester Bagley, on delaying talks about a new stadium with the team's Metrodome lease expiring after the '11 season (PIONEER PRESS, 2/24).
Top Stories
Freeze Tag
Many Teams Freezing
Future Ticket PricesOne of the hot button issues facing sports properties going forward is ticket pricing. It is something that all teams and leagues are watching during the recession, and news of plans for '09-10 is slowly emerging. The Cavaliers are freezing prices and offering a new eight-month extended payment plan option, while the Jazz last week said they will hold the line on most tickets. The Ducks are freezing all ticket prices for next season, as well as food, beverages and parking at Honda Center. And Comcast-Spectacor says ticket prices for the Flyers and 76ers will not increase next season, as payment plans for both teams "have been stretched out" to nine and 10 months, respectively. But not all are playing along -- the "apparently recession-proof" Maple Leafs are increasing ticket prices by an average of 3.5%. Look for more news over the next few weeks as NBA and NHL teams finalize plans for next season.
America's Pastime
Kicking off his Spring Training tour, Donald Fehr says baseball's steroid problem is "fixed."
Team Building Activity
Canadian billionaire Brett Wilson reaches deal to acquire minority stake in Predators.
Has This Ship Sailed?
Vikings left to ponder their future in Minnesota as state Legislature discusses, and all but dismisses, idea of public funding for new stadium.
West Side Story
Thanks to a boost from Lance, Tour of California emerges as a major player on int'l cycling scene.
Texas Two-Step
Jerry Jones says Cowboys have sold 273 suites at new stadium; economy keeps Glorypark development stuck in neutral.
Payback Time
Andy Murray willing to rework endorsement deal to help out longtime sponsor RBS
Developing Situation
NFLPA retains legal counsel to look into allegations against Exec Dir candidate Troy Vincent.
The Remix To Ignition
IndyCar Series, one year since unification, begins testing for '09 season.
Tongue Tied
Phelps replaced by Martin Sheen on speaking tour in fallout from bong picture.
