OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Exhibition games organized by NBA basketball players have become a trend as a result of the NBA lockout. With the benefit normally given to charity, the games have been an oasis of basketball during a period where little is known about when the league will again play games. Now, the Association's owners are getting in on the action.
With Oklahoma City mayor Mick Cornett and NBA commissioner David Stern to his side, Thunder owner Clay Bennett announced an owner-organized charity game. The game, which will be held at Chesapeake Energy Arena, is scheduled for November 3rd.
Just last week, a game held in OKC that was organized by former Thunder player Desmond Mason and current Thunder star Kevin Durant sold out the Cox Convention Center mere moments after tickets became available. The game featured league superstars including Durant, LeBron James, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, and also featured other Thunder players like Russell Westbrook and James Harden.
In response, the owner-led game intends to bring a star-laden line up that will be centered around Bennett. In addition, other ownership heavy weights will join him. Mark Cuban, owner of the Mavericks, Paul Allen of the Trail Blazers, and the Cavaliers' Dan Gilbert will join in the festivities.
"I can't wait," Cuban said while wearing a "Don't Let Us Overpay" t-shirt. "Most fans feel sorry for the players because they aren't allowed to play, but what about us owners? I haven't been able to yell at a referee since the Finals."