There is something to be said about turning disadvantages into advantages. With the looming NBA lockout upon us, it is easy to discuss the disadvantages; players losing money, owners losing money, local businesses losing money, fans losing a favorite pastime. However, the advantages of a lockout often go unnoticed. Colleges and universities stand to gain a lot from a lockout. Higher television ratings and mentorships are just some of the ways they benefit. Fans also get more up close interaction with players and the players themselves can begin to carve out a future after basketball with all this extra time on their hands.
With no NBA to watch, fans of basketball often turn to college basketball to quench their thirst for the sport. When the NBA experienced a lockout in 1998-99, college basketball rating significantly increased. With the current season in jeopardy, many rookies are returning to their respective universities to finish out their degrees. This provides valuable on campus examples for current college players of the importance of a college education. Exhibitions such as the Drew League vs. Goodman League and the All-Stars vs. Villains charity game provide fans with up close views of their favorite players that they would not have witnessed otherwise. Many NBA players are also assuming assistant coaching positions and other such jobs that will provide them with important experience in future careers.
Every cloud has a silver lining, even the dark cloud of the NBA lockout.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1191747/index.htm
Kristin Kelly
KIN 577
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