As the NFL and NHL arrive in Nashville, the market's
viability as a pro sports city was examined in a "Page 1"
report by CNN/SI's Nick Charles. Nashville, with a
population of 1.1 million, "is now the smallest among cities
with more than one professional franchise." Nashville-based
minor league investor Larry Schmittou: "We're not used to
it. Not used to a high-priced ticket. Small market by
major league standards." Charles: "The initial challenge
Nashville ... faces is how to develop instant tradition."
Nashville NHL President Jack Diller said the city benefited
from receiving an NHL expansion team compared to a relocated
franchise, "Because the important thing we can do is to
present a franchise that is really Nashville and it isn't
somebody else's team that's come here from somewhere else
that comes with whatever baggage may come with it."
CNN/SI's Charles said the "early returns" on the NFL Oilers
"have been positive." The team has sold 117 luxury boxes
and over 40,000 personal seat licenses. But Charles added
that the Oilers playing their first two seasons in Memphis
"could either expand their fan base or corrode their
foundation in Nashville" ("CNN/SI," CNN, 7/22).
