THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, October 22, 1996 TAG: 9610220402
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C5 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: STAFF, WIRE REPORTS
DATELINE: CHARLOTTE LENGTH: 35 lines
George Shinn, owner of the NBA's Charlotte Hornets, hinted Monday that he likely will decide within a month or two whether to put an NHL expansion team in Raleigh or Hampton Roads and admitted he's much further along than he previously had acknowledged.
``We've already spent some time putting things together,'' Shinn said. ``We've talked about uniforms, a nickname, mascot, everything. We've talked to Alexander Julian about designing a hockey uniform.''
He's already decided upon a nickname for the team regardless of where he puts it - the Rhinos. The uniform colors likely would be teal, purple and blue.
Shinn said he expects to hear from officials in Raleigh and Hampton Roads this week. He has traveled to both regions to speak with business and political leaders.
Raleigh is hoping to garner a franchise in December, when the NHL is expected to expand by at least two teams. Hampton Roads officials say they are eyeing an expected second round of expansion in a year or two.
Shinn said he's confident he can reach an agreement to build an arena in either Hampton Roads or Raleigh.
``There's absolutely a way to work it out and that's why I have my banker involved in it,'' he said.
It is expected that Shinn will sign a long-term lease for an arena for a yearly sum of about $5 million and book events in the building himself.
Norfolk Mayor Paul D. Fraim, who has led efforts to bring a franchise to Hampton Roads, declined comment when asked if he would speak with Shinn this week. MEMO: Staff writer Harry Minium contributed to this story. by CNB