Mas said that he expects to have a site for their Development Academy in place in three monthsGetty Images
In Miami, Michelle Kaufman notes the city's new MLS team will begin its "naming process" sometime before the end of February. Owners "want input from fans, so they are planning a worldwide social media campaign inviting fans to suggest names." There will be a "similar initiative to decide the team colors, logo and jersey design." The owners are also "close to securing a site for their Development Academy." Co-Owner Jorge Mas said that he "expects to have a site in place 'in three months'" (MIAMI HERALD, 1/31).
GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING: In Detroit, Shawn Windsor writes there is "no arguing" the fact that the Pistons, as they were constructed before acquiring F Blake Griffin through a trade with the Clippers, were a "terrible business." They were "irrelevant, uninteresting and offered little for you to look forward to." Teams "can't win without stars" or "draw much interest." Pistons Owner Tom Gores "wants to win." He also "wants to make a splash" (DETROIT FREE PRESS, 1/31).
Y'ALL COME BACK NOW: In Tampa, Joe Smith noted one day after hosting the NHL All-Star Game, there was a "billboard put up on southbound 275 that read, 'Thank You, NHL! Next time, Let's go outside the box.'" On the billboard there was an "image of Raymond James Stadium with a hockey rink." The Lightning "wanted NHL officials to see the sign" on their way out of town (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 1/30).
