NBA Lockout Where We Stand in August

This past Friday FIBA announced it would allow NBA players under contract to play in its various leagues during the lockout, only if the deals they sign come with opt out clauses. Meaning when the league and players come to an agreement they would have to return to the states and play for their teams.

Playing overseas has become a viable option for many players due to the lockout and many big name stars are considering playing to keep in shape and enjoy the game they love. Some names such as Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard have mulled over the idea. This past Monday the NBA took legal action on the players filing two claims for being uncooperative in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement and making threats to dissolve the union. A similar situation happened with the NFL in regards to the decertification of the union this year. Both sides have to want to work together collective in order for these issues to be resolved.

The team owners want significant changes to the league’s salary structure where owners can recoup some of the losses they have occurred in the past years. Owners are claiming they have lost roughly $300 million last season alone. Players are at a standstill because owners want to reduce salaries and contract lengths for the players.

For this to be resolved owners and players have to understand in order for the league to start operating again there has to be compromise. If we can get a deal that is fair for the both sides where it makes sense, I believe the league will start again in late October. If not get ready for a shortened season much like the last lockout in 98-99, which it took nearly 5 years to regain a sold fan base again.