In Chicago, Danny Ecker noted for the "first time since his rookie year" in '08-09, the list of theme-night giveaways heading into the regular season for the Bulls has no items featuring G Derrick Rose. He "had a bobblehead giveaway in his image handed out during five of the past six seasons" (the '10-11 season featured a Rose shirt and drawstring bag). Rose's "inability to stay healthy, combined with a series of public relations missteps and statements to the press that have come off as tone deaf, have made it more difficult for the Bulls to put him at the forefront of their marketing efforts" (CHICAGOBUSINESS.com, 10/23)
MILITARY MEN: In West Palm Beach, Jason Lieser notes the Heat will wear military-themed "Home Strong" uniforms "in honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 8, 10 and 12." They will also have "other similarly styled shirts, hats and apparel for sale." A portion of the proceeds from Home Strong gear "will go to Miami VAHS Fisher House" (PALMBEACHPOST.com, 10/27).
INCREASING THE BUZZ: In Greensboro, Jeff Mills notes the Hornets "will own and operate" a D-League team, which will be "formally announced today to begin play" in the '16-17 season. By owning the team, the Hornets "assure their players become the priority in the D-league." That is "not necessarily the case this season, as the Hornets will continue to send players" to the Ft. Wayne Mad Ants, a team now affiliated with the Pacers. Hornets President & COO Fred Whitfield said, “It becomes very complicated. You don’t have any control over your basketball development piece, which is a critical part" (Greensboro NEWS & RECORD, 10/27).
PICK AND ROLL: In Michigan, Edward Pevos noted to count down the Pistons' home opener tomorrow, numerous celebs "have taken part in one giant 'alley-oop,'" including musicians Eminem and CeeLo Green, actor J.K. Simmons, Lions WR Calvin Johnson and former NBAer Jalen Rose (MLIVE.com, 10/26).
