Charlotte Hornets 2000-01 Media Day
"The more things change, the more they stay the same"
-- So what happened? Was there an epiphany that we may have finally figured the answers to much maligned questions and an offseason of pure speculation? Trying to build a winner isn't just an instant recipe you can put into the microwave and enjoy the meal as is and expect the fans to be satisfied unless the results are that of progression or you have an OP-like star on your roster that can put a team on its back to multiple championships. In our history here in Charlotte, we've had a mixed bag of results. We've celebrated during the Gugs era. Cried during the years of no playoffs when we didn't have any picks. We've struggled and thrived as one throughout much of this journey and in summation, we have truly been thankful for any and all support the fine people of our great city has shown and will continue to do our part to give these people what they deserve. A basketball product they can be proud of and one that will give you effort, heart, and a passion for this game like no other team in this league."Why is he saying that?"
-- A number of sources chirped up during the offseason that due to our lack of financial profits, the league was heavily disappointed and rumors started swirling around that this franchise may be moved. We remain committed to keeping this team in Charlotte no matter the cost. We value every dollar the people have to spend to want to see this basketball club. We have looked into several options that could be used to improve the facilities here at the Charlotte Coliseum or come to a point where we need a new stadium to house our demand. This franchise is not going anywhere and whoever drummed up these salacious lies deserves a special place in hell for attempting to ruin the lives of the hardworking people that dedicate a lot of their time to making sure the experience in watching this basketball team is a memory that lasts a lifetime and creates lifetime fans.
-- Another rumor that circled the drains was that one of our young foundational pieces, Ron Artest, was frustrated with our offseason "plans." I've heard none of these things in any of our talks personally with Ron and he's been nothing but exceptional in all of our ideas and plans. He's been upfront and honest with us everytime we've had ideas on who would fit with our club. But to say he's been disappointed and frustrated are adjectives that are straight up lies fed to the public by uninformed "sources" that are paid to spit out that kind of gossip. Ron Artest has been working hard in the offseason to continue to grow with the organization and has even put on some more muscle. With Dennis Scott gone, Ron will be taking a more impactful role in our starting lineup this season at the three. He still has more room to grow and we are very excited to have him grow with our organization.
"Old enemies become new friends."
-- Our two goals this offseason was finding a solution that can be plugged into the 5 and the 1. It was a difficult decision letting go of Eric Dampier in free agency to our Central division rivals, the Chicago Bulls but the price they paid for him was a bit more than what we were willing to meet at the table for. We value Eric's contributions to our club the last few years and wish him nothing but the best of luck in his new home. With that allotted money now freed up, we still needed to free up some change from our pockets in committed salary so we could arrange the necessary contracts. It was a difficult decision shipping off Dennis Scott and baby Darius but we got back productive backups in Yinka Dare to hold down the fort at the 5 and Larry Johnson. LJ has had a lengthy career and we're hopeful that his crafty play and strength can be an anchor to our second unit. Now with that money freed up, we were able to resign David Wesley, who expressed his desire to return to Charlotte when during the season even when he elected to test the free agency waters. We're more than excited to see him back in the Turquoise and purple next to Allan Houston and Rasheed. Now our next Free agent target was someone we were really familiar during the Gugs era. Epic post season clashes against the long time Knick made Gugs had to work for every rebound. Now the "Admiral" David Robinson will join our ship at sea to navigate the dangerous waters of the Eastern Conference with the likes of Shaq and OPenny now in our division as well as an enhanced Michael Finley should make for some difficult but enjoyable matchups ahead.
-- We are excited about this season and what it represents. We will do everything in our power to make sure this season ahead we will continue to progress and do better than the season before last. We will always look for the right move that can present a benefit for our team and will continue to develop and grow here in the fine city of Charlotte, North Carolina.
