New Panthers Owner David Tepper said this week that he wants to have a presence in both Carolinas, and that "could mean shifting part of the team's operations across the state line," according to Joseph Person of the CHARLOTTE OBSERVER. A source said that Tepper could "consider building a new practice complex that includes mixed-use development." Tepper is said to be "open to considering sites on either side of the state line." The Panthers' current practice facility -- "located behind Bank of America Stadium on the opposite side of a rail line -- includes two grass fields and another with an artificial surface." The team "does not have an indoor facility." While Tepper "weighs putting a practice site in South Carolina," Hornets investor and NASCAR team co-Owner Felix Sabates does not get the impression Tepper is "considering moving the stadium there." Sabates said, "I don't think he would do that. David loves Charlotte. He's got huge plans for Charlotte" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 5/24).
FIRST IMPRESSION: In Charlotte, Katherine Peralta notes Tepper is "getting used to being in the spotlight" as an NFL team owner. His demeanor over the last week "provided a glimpse into the kind of leader he'll be at Bank of America Stadium." Tepper is "outspoken but also self-deprecating" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 5/24). Also in Charlotte, Tom Sorensen writes Tepper is "genuine," a quality that "will serve him well." Sorensen: "Every city has a personality, and we've had owners that chose not to learn ours." Those included Bobcats Founder Bob Johnson, and former Hornets co-Owner Ray Wooldridge, who both "expected Charlotte to adjust to them." Sorensen: "I have no idea how much time Tepper will spend here. But I hope he digs in, and I hope he likes it, too" (CHARLOTTEOBSERVER.com, 5/24).
