In Houston, Jack Witthaus noted the Rockets are "expecting big attendance numbers next season after sporting the best record in the NBA this year." In March, season-ticket holders saw a less than 7% "increase on average in cost after renewals for tickets were sent out." Rockets Chief Revenue Officer Gretchen Sheirr said that season-ticket costs "range in prices due to seat location and number of seats." She "declined to disclose how many season tickets were sold or what percentage of seats in the Toyota Center are held by season ticket holders" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 5/14).
BEN THERE, DONE THAT: In Michigan, Peter Wallner noted former NBAer Ben Wallace was "formally introduced as part-owner" of the NBA G League Grand Rapids Drive. Team President Steve Jbara said Wallace is the "largest minority owner" in the franchise. Wallace has "spoken with season-ticket holders, met with community groups and even shot baskets a few times with fans." He gives the Drive "valuable exposure" (MLIVE.com, 5/16).
FOR THE KIDS: In Las Vegas, Gilbert Manzano notes the Raiders "partnered with the ECO City Gallery at Discovery Children’s Museum to unveil a Kids Construction Zone exhibit." The informative exhibit is a "replica of the stadium the Raiders are building for the NFL team that is expected to open" for the '20 season. The Raiders will "cover the full expenses for third grade students at Title I schools to see the exhibit at the downtown museum" (LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL, 5/17).
