Dragons Eye LeBron
1/06/2006
If you thought securing Mark Price as the Dragons inaugural coach was a piece of recruiting genius – imagine LeBron James pulling on a South Dragons jersey.
Not likely, although South Dragons co-owner Raphael Geminder held talks with Cleveland Cavaliers owner Danny Ferry recently to discuss a partnership with the NBA franchise.
The Cavs, playing home to the South Dragons inaugural coach Mark Price and NBA wunderkind LeBron James, are keen to investigate a number of opportunities with the Australian-based club.
“To have an affiliation with an organisation of the Cavaliers stature would be massive for our club,” said Geminder, who met with Ferry in Cleveland before the Cavs took on the Pistons in the NBA play-offs.
"Understandably, Cavs fans want to follow the coaching career of one of their favorite sons, and we're more than happy to facilitate that.
“Our discussions have also covered access to the Cavaliers player database, and information sharing for our coaching staff.
“Most importantly, a relationship with the Cavaliers presents some fantastic opportunities for our Dragons members to share in the excitement of the NBA experience.”
Geminder expects the discussions to be finalised soon.
“Over the coming months we’ll continue dialogue with the Cavs and probably come to a shared understanding before our pre-season begins."
Meanwhile Price thinks the chances of luring LeBron are slim to none.
“Danny (Ferry) might not be my friend anymore if that happens,” Price added.
“And LeBron might have to take a pay cut to play in Australia.”