Hornets’ support surges in lockout

The future of the NBA in New Orleans is showing increasing promise, even though fans and businesses pouring money into Hornets tickets and sponsorships have no guarantee that games will be played next season.

As the Hornets introduced Chevron as their fifth million-dollar corporate sponsor on Wednesday, team president Hugh Weber said the franchise is closing in on several goals seen as necessary to ensure pro basketball’s long-term presence in the Big Easy.

Weber said he has been encouraged by gains in community support even as the NBA lockout threatens to cancel parts or all of next season, and as sports fans increasingly turn their attention to the onset of the NFL and college football seasons.

For now, the Hornets are owned by the NBA. which bought the team in December from founder George Shinn.
Season tickets have reached 8,900, an increase of 2,600 over last season.

The club is working toward a new TV contract and new arena lease. Weber said the primary goal of a TV deal is to have games televised in more households in the region.

See more at www.sunherald.com