In Chicago, Paul Sullivan notes the Cubs are "prohibited from playing Friday night games under a city ordinance, and it doesn't seem likely the city will change its mind any time soon." It "makes no sense to prohibit night games on Fridays when people are starting their weekends." It is an "archaic rule that's lasted three decades for no apparent reason." A source said that the ban on Friday night games has "more to do with local businesses who don't want to compete for customers than neighbors worried about parking or congestion" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 8/18).
ROAD TRIP: In Atlanta, Chris Vivlamore cited a source as saying that the Hawks did "not request from the NBA that they start the season on the road with major renovations to Philips Arena well underway." The Hawks "open with a lengthy five-game road stretch." The Hawks’ home opener is Oct. 27. Expectations are that the first phase of renovations will be "completed in time for the NBA season" (AJC.com, 8/15).
STAYING PUT: Steelers President Art Rooney II said that he "'would be surprised' if the Steelers don't spend 'some part of the summer'" in future seasons at St. Vincent College in Pittsburgh for training camp, even if the NFL "changes its preseason." Rooney: "This is a great setup for us. Our fans love it. Our players enjoy being here. It works" (TRIBLIVE.com, 8/16).
I'LL FOLLOW THE SUN: In Connecticut, Mike DiMauro wondered if the WNBA Sun should have "drawn a few more" last Saturday as they clinched a playoff spot, "given their seven-game home win streak at the time, entertaining style, young, energetic players and offers of such future promise." A five-year playoff drought may have "turned off" some people "who would likely inhabit the upper bowl." It "appears the casual fans have yet to return, at least consistently" (New London DAY, 8/17).
