ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert noted the NFL will use data chips in its game footballs during the preseason, but a source said that the technology will not "provide real-time psi measurements." However, the technology "exists and could be added to the arrangement if the league desires." The addition would be "similar to the tool that warns automobile drivers that their tires are underinflated" (ESPN.com, 7/18).
LOSE-LOSE SITUATION? In Orlando, David Whitley writes the NBA "is in a lose-lose position" with the '17 All-Star Game and North Carolina's HB2, and there is "only one way to turn it into a lose-win." Whitley: "Move the game to Orlando." Because the NBA "really needs to come up with an alternative site for next February's game, staging it about a mile from the scene of the Pulse tragedy would be a uniquely appropriate Plan B." It would "mean more than moving it to L.A. or New York or any other quick-fix locale." And it "would be a public-relations coup" for the league (ORLANDO SENTINEL, 7/19).
AGAINST THE WIND: In Indianapolis, Curt Cavin noted NASCAR's Brickyard 400 at IMS is "about to be void of local racing heroes to support." Jeff Gordon "retired after last season, and Tony Stewart will do so when this season concludes." NASCAR attendance is "struggling in most part of the country as the at-home viewing experience gets better and cheaper." But ultimately, ticket buying "is driven by emotional attachment, either for the sport as a whole or the athletes in competition." Taking Gordon and Stewart "out of the equation is a local blow to the latter" (INDIANAPOLIS STAR, 7/17).
