Can’t say this is really a surprise, but it kind of turns your stomach anyway.
Talks to keep the deal for a new arena for the Kings in Sacramento has formally been pronounced dead, reports the Sacramento Bee.After two days of talks between city officials and the Maloof family, Mayor Kevin Johnson announced today it became clear there were “irreconcilable” differences between the sides over the financing plan for a downtown sports facility.
“We know this door is closed,” the mayor said.
What were the Maloof’s issues? Well, the city dared asked for collateral on the $67 million they already loaned the team. And the Mallofs didn’t want to make a 30 year commitment to the city.
Don’t you have the feeling that even if those issues could have been worked out the Maloofs would have moved the goal line with new demands?
Then there is this quote in the Bee story:
Co-owner George Maloof said the team doesn’t intend to seek relocation. “We’re not going anywhere,” he said.
Does anyone believe that? If you do, I have a bridge in New York I want to sell you.
