NEW YORK (AP) — Insisting that the NBA’s financial projections “don’t hold water,” players’ association executive director Billy Hunter says he’s seen nothing to change his belief that a lockout is possible.
Hunter disputes commissioner David Stern’s forecast of nearly $400 million in losses this season, countering that the league’s basketball-related revenues increased to their highest point ever in 2009-10.
The league’s collective bargaining agreement expires next summer, and the sides remain far apart on talks for a new one, creating fears of the first work stoppage since 1998-99.
Hunter tells The Associated Press he is preparing for that, but hopes owners won’t shut the game down during what he calls a positive time for the league.
