Grizzlies Owner Robert Pera discussed the "future of FedExForum and more" in an e-mail Q&A with Ronald Tillery of the Memphis COMMERCIAL APPEAL. Below are excerpts from the interview:
Q: During a Twitter conversation with fans last summer you promised more transparency. Why haven’t [we] seen more of a public presence from you?
Pera: The Grizzlies are different than other businesses in that you have nontraditional stakeholders such as our passionate fans. I understand how important it is for the organization to communicate regularly with our fans so that they understand our vision for the future. To that end, folks like [GM] Chris Wallace, [President of Business Operations] Jason Wexler, [VP/Basketball Operations] John Hollinger and [VP/Player Personnel] Ed Stefanski have regularly engaged with our fans, either directly or through the media, to discuss that vision. My focus will remain on ensuring that vision is executed.
Q: We’re in an era of more hands-on owners. Should an owner have input in the day-to-day utilization of players and style of play?
Pera: I don’t know that we are in an era of more hands-on owners. I believe that we are certainly in an era of immense media coverage of NBA franchises and every aspect of their operations. Every NBA franchise is unique and far be it from me to tell other NBA owners how hands-on they should be.
Q: As someone who prefers to stay in the background and away from the spotlight, what interested you about playing in the celebrity game at NBA All-Star Weekend?
Pera: A chance to play at Madison Square Garden was just too good to pass up.
Q: What are your plans to improve FedExForum from a fan perspective?
Pera: FedExForum is our home and we will continue to maintain and upgrade it. For example, to enhance the fan experience, this past year saw investments in the Pyramid Vodka Studio, the Grizzlies Den by Adidas and the Horseshoe Club. That said, we will focus the bulk of our resources on what our fans care about most: fielding a competitive team and maintaining affordable ticket prices. If that means forgoing an upgrade to our in-house laser show, I am confident that our fans will support the decision (Memphis COMMERCIAL APPEAL, 4/17).
