Like the NFL earlier this year, the National Basketball Association has now locked it’s doors to players. The NBA lockout is in full effect.
The NBA announced today that player training camps for the 2011-12 season have been postponed indefinitely because a new collective bargaining agreement has not been reached with the National Basketball Players Association. Training camps were scheduled to open on October 3.
In addition, the league canceled all preseason games scheduled from October 9 through October 15.
“We have regretfully reached the point on the calendar where we are not able to open training camps on time and need to cancel the first week of preseason games,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver. “We will make further decisions as warranted.”
For the Pacers, that means loss of three home games against some of the best teams in the East–Chicago, Dallas and Orlando.
Friday, owner Herb Simon sent out a mass email to Pacers fans.
Dear Fans,
We appreciate your continued patience as the NBA and the NBA Players Association negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. Since no such agreement has been reached at this time, the league has postponed player training camps and cancelled preseason games scheduled through Saturday, Oct. 15.
We want to assure you that the league’s efforts are focused on reaching an agreement that benefits all parties involved. The NBA’s goal is to secure a sustainable business model that enables all 30 teams to compete for a championship, fairly compensates players, and ensures a world-class experience for our fans.
The league will continue to work toward a new collective bargaining agreement so that we can get back to enjoying the excitement of Pacers basketball. We remain extremely excited about the future of our franchise.
Please know that as a valued supporter of our team, you are an important part of the Indiana Pacers’ family, and your loyalty and support is appreciated. Thank you for your support and your continued loyalty to the Indiana Pacers.
Sincerely,
Herbert Simon
Owner/Chairman & CEO
Pacers Sports & Entertainment