Chant "Sell the Team"

[kingofthejungle]

I've posted about the protest for this season's last game against the Lakers before, but wanted to provide one last update. Below is a summary of the event descrption from the facebook page. I've added my most recent post as well to give any last second additions a few more details. This is a chance for us devoted fans to be heard so please consider either a) joinging the cause directly or b) at least chanting along with others during the game.

Thanks,

KOTJ

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http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/events/230489533725931/
I am arranging a protest for the last home game of the season, Kings v. Lakers. Folks are encouraged to dress in Kings' gear so that we are not confused as an anti-Kings group. Instead, we are loyal "Sacramento" Kings fans that want the team to stay and recognize that the Maloofs are unable and/or unwilling to committ to keeping them in our fair city. Local media will be invited to cover our cause. This is NOT a request to boycott games, as we need individuals to attend so that the "Sell the Team" chant can reach "Arco Thunder" sound levels! Please spread the word of this event to your family and friends. We can make a difference, but only if we stand together ...

MOST RECENT UPDATE: The day is nearly upon us. Please join me to make a last ditch effort to increase our numbers. In the meantime, the signs have been made and I will copy approx 1000+ fliers for distrubution on game day. We will meet at 5:30 by the Papa Johns Pizza at the corner of Arena and East Commerce, 2580 Arena Blvd. From there, most of us get into one of 3 groups that will include 4 sign holders (reading "Chant Sell the Team" when side by side) and one or more flier distrubuters. These 3 group will camp out just outside the Main, West, and East entrances. Some of us will also roam the parking lot in pairs or triads, depending on our numbers, and hand out fliers. These folks will start nearer the arena but drift back toward the larger groups at the gates, since security will probably be alerted at some point (this is, after all, an anti-Maloof message). Importantly, we are asking that fans only start the chant during Lakers' free throws, as we don't want to distract our own team, nor do we wish to be drowned out by the sound system. More details will follow but I will probably reserve most for those who actually show. Lets do this!

 

[VF21]

Please note: This is not sanctioned or approved (or disapproved) by Kingsfans.com Each person is free to make up his/her own mind.

 

[Trueblood]

I hope it works but keep in mind that the Maloofs are hard headed and very stubborn. Things like this could always backfire and just make them justify leaving all the more.

 

[VF21]

My PERSONAL opinion as just another member of KF (and not part of the moderating staff) is that this is happening at the absolute WORST possible moment. Mayor Johnson and George Maloof have been talking this week and appear to be mending fences. I think we as fans need to respect that process and not do anything to distract from what's important - getting the arena deal done. Just my two cents...

 

[Brac-o-matic]

My PERSONAL opinion as just another member of KF (and not part of the moderating staff) is that this is happening at the absolute WORST possible moment. Mayor Johnson and George Maloof have been talking this week and appear to be mending fences. I think we as fans need to respect that process and not do anything to distract from what's important - getting the arena deal done. Just my two cents...

I totally second this opinion. I think that, no matter what their opinion is on selling, for or against, this would do nothing to help the "sell the team" cause, and potentially do quite a bit to set us back.

 

[kingofthejungle]

I wouldn't hold your breath ...

... in hopes that George Maloof will honor anything he says he will. The Maloofs have failed time and time again and took a dump on Sacramento in the process, so I say screw their feelngs and cheer "Sell the Team!"

 

[VF21]

... in hopes that George Maloof will honor anything he says he will. The Maloofs have failed time and time again and took a dump on Sacramento in the process, so I say screw their feelngs and cheer "Sell the Team!"

You're entitled to your opinion but it's not just about George Maloof. It's also about Mayor Kevin Johnson and his efforts to keep the arena deal alive. He pretty much swallowed his pride and took the first step in flying to Las Vegas to do everything he could to reopen these discussions. This is bigger than basketball.

But, again, this is just my personal opinion. I applaud your fervor and fully understand it. I just don't happen to agree with how you choose to express it.

Peace.

 

[PurpleHaze]

We could always just turn the loud chant, "LAKERS SUCK!" into "MALOOF'S SUCK!"

 

[kingofthejungle]

Final Update Regarding Protest

So I am no longer trying to arrange a "sell the team" chant. I figure that if I can't even get Kings' fanatics to agree on this on sites like Kingsfans.com, then this mission is screwed. We are still protesting outside of the arena, weather permitting, and will be holding up signs to "Honk for NEW Owners." The facebook page (link at top of the thread) has been updated for anyone that would like to join. We will be going to a local restraunt after to celebrate a job well done and watch the Kings, so it should be a good time.

 

[Rookie]

I'm tired of the Maloofs but I'm not sure protesting for new owners really help with the arena deal.

I think the "Here we stay" was much better and it shows fans dedication for the Kings despite being pissed off by the owners.

 

[Section 101]

So I am no longer trying to arrange a "sell the team" chant. I figure that if I can't even get Kings' fanatics to agree on this on sites like Kingsfans.com, then this mission is screwed. We are still protesting outside of the arena, weather permitting, and will be holding up signs to "Honk for NEW Owners." The facebook page (link at top of the thread) has been updated for anyone that would like to join. We will be going to a local restraunt after to celebrate a job well done and watch the Kings, so it should be a good time.

Most of the people on this site don't even live close to Sac or go to games. Being a season ticket holder since 1990 I can tell you the chance of any chants actually working for the entire arena is slim to none. Even last year with the HWS that had lots of media attention and they handed out fliers probably only got about 1/2 the arena at most. They were also short lived to the first few times afterwards they were less and less.

 

[Capt. Factorial]

So I am no longer trying to arrange a "sell the team" chant. I figure that if I can't even get Kings' fanatics to agree on this on sites like Kingsfans.com, then this mission is screwed.

It sounds almost like you're putting this down to apathy, and you shouldn't. I think it's much more related to the fact that we do our best to live up to every city's favorite claim of having "the best fans in the world". And part of that is being savvy about our fandom. Part of it is that however foot-stomping, wall-punching, name-calling, lie-accusing, bankruptcy-hoping, revenge-thirsty, voodoo-doll-piercing mad we get around here, the majority of us don't want to go out in public, on a national stage, and do something that might backfire on us.

 

[kingofthejungle]

...

I see your position and it appears that many here share it. My bottom line is that I'm over the Maloof's crap and want them called out for it in public. I want to watch them squirm. They can ***** all they want but, as long as the arena is full, the NBA will likely not approve a move no matter how low they go.

I'm over being passive and hoping for the Maloofs to come around. Keeping my mouth shut so that they may come back to the table and negotiate in good faith ... I mean really ... does anyone here really expect that to happen?

But I'm over the chanting and turning to honking, since chants rely on a united front which is obviously not the case here and won't be the case at that pile of crap "arena" either. So many folks seem worried that making our disatisfaction with ownership will impact "negotiations," as if the Maloofs actually give a rat's *** about what we think anyway. Sure, they may use it to argue that they are not welcome, but that's besides the point as far as the NBA's concerned--we are economically valid and our fandom will never be questioned by Stern.

I'd rather at least express my feelings and put pressure on them. Many of the Maloof's partners have already expressed their disatisfaction in a recent letter and asked them to sell, so why not the fans too?

But mostly I'm frustrated that someone tries to actually get something together and the responses are basically criticism with little to no comittment. The organizer then makes a number of adjustment to appease concerns, but there's basically no positive response. But whatever, we're 40 deep already and those that are willing to stand up to be heard probably already have, so I'm out.

 

[The Hammer]

I see your position and it appears that many here share it. My bottom line is that I'm over the Maloof's crap and want them called out for it in public. I want to watch them squirm. They can ***** all they want but, as long as the arena is full, the NBA will likely not approve a move no matter how low they go.

I'm over being passive and hoping for the Maloofs to come around. Keeping my mouth shut so that they may come back to the table and negotiate in good faith ... I mean really ... does anyone here really expect that to happen?

But I'm over the chanting and turning to honking, since chants rely on a united front which is obviously not the case here and won't be the case at that pile of crap "arena" either. So many folks seem worried that making our disatisfaction with ownership will impact "negotiations," as if the Maloofs actually give a rat's *** about what we think anyway. Sure, they may use it to argue that they are not welcome, but that's besides the point as far as the NBA's concerned--we are economically valid and our fandom will never be questioned by Stern.

I'd rather at least express my feelings and put pressure on them. Many of the Maloof's partners have already expressed their disatisfaction in a recent letter and asked them to sell, so why not the fans too?

But mostly I'm frustrated that someone tries to actually get something together and the responses are basically criticism with little to no comittment. The organizer then makes a number of adjustment to appease concerns, but there's basically no positive response. But whatever, we're 40 deep already and those that are willing to stand up to be heard probably already have, so I'm out.

Don't criticize people for not acquiescing to your demands about how to express themselves. You basically want to get a whole bunch of people to voice YOUR own feelings in a powerful way so you can live out your "**** you Maloofs" fantasy. I'll be blunt: Your approach is too self centered.

The chants may indeed happen. Maybe because you've planted the seed, but it will still have to be a spontaneous thing.

Calling it people's lack of "comittment" really misconstrues the dissenters attempts to communicate why they think the chants are not a good idea. It's just simply not skillful, is what they are saying. Do you understand their point? (You can still disagree, but you really haven't shown why the chanting is a good way to get what we all want. You haven't sold it to people on their terms, you just keep trying to appeal to people sadistic desire to "watch them squirm.")

 

[kingofthejungle]

...

First off I'm no longer calling for a chant exactly because I've been listening to others. The problem is that trying to incorporate others ideas doesn't get anywhere. First the funeral idea was no bueno, sit it was dropped for a chant. Then the chant is felt too aggressive, so that is changed to holding up signs to honk for new owners. I'm just trying to make something happen.

And what exactly can the fans do that they aren't already doing to "get what we all want." What are your ideas? I'm down to join up if someone wants to come up with an idea and make it happen. I'd ditch my own idea in a second if someone else was putting something together. But no one is as far as I can tell. People called for a petition and I signed it. People called for phoning the Maloofs and I did. I haven't seen any other ideas of late.

Last, I understand the point that others may not find "sell the team" skillful. That's fine and I haven't chastized anyone for not wanting to do so. That's your choice. My problem is that very few alternatives are offered and, even when they are and adjustments are made, no one still wants to comitt.

And I resent the sadistic comment, "Hammer."

 

[Warhawk]

I want the Maloofs gone and a real owner with $$$ to come in as much as anyone. But these events with the team are happening in the last couple weeks of the season and are still effectively up in the air until after the meetings this week. I think many may still be holding out hope that something can be done and we can get the project moving forward.

I also think that unlike just trying to keep the Kings here (Here We Stay, etc.), this effort is geared to a NEGATIVE effect (removing the current owners) and that makes it harder to garner "universal" support for a particular action, especially when so many ideas are suggested by so many people (protest, don't protest, chants, paper bags on your heads at the games, signs, your honking effort prior to the game, come in to the game late, stand in silence for a quarter, don't use MSE parking or concessions, etc., etc.). It is hard to get something like this planned on such short notice for something so divisive to so many.

I've gone to more games this year than I have in a while, and am not attending tomorrow's game, so I am not suggesting anything one way or another.

Don't take it personally. Everyone feels different on what should perhaps be done or how to approach the situation, if they want to address it at all at this point with meetings still coming up. Some just want to get the season over and wait for the summer to figure out what is going on. Some do not want to let the Laker fans appear to be more numerous or vocal that the Kings fans. Some want the Kings to lose for lottery reasons and some would NEVER root for the Lakers to win. Some are just emotionally exhausted about the issue already and don't want to put more effort into this issue.

It's just such a f***ed up time right now, it is hard to get something like this organized to make everyone on board. If you have 40+ coming already, you are doing good.

 

[kingofthejungle]

I really, really appreciate your comments Warhawk.

I really don't want to fight online with anyone here. We are all brothers and sisters who love the Kings and want them to be successful and stay. I really see your point that this is such as stressful time to be a Kings' fan and how many of us are overwhelmed and unsure of exactly how to approach this. I'll try to show more patience and again, I mean no harm to any of you, just super frustrated and really trying to make a difference. But your words just made a big difference for me, Warhawk. Thanks.

So now I have to pretend to be engaged at work again? Crap!

 

[VF21]

First off I'm no longer calling for a chant exactly because I've been listening to others. The problem is that trying to incorporate others ideas doesn't get anywhere. First the funeral idea was no bueno, sit it was dropped for a chant. Then the chant is felt too aggressive, so that is changed to holding up signs to honk for new owners. I'm just trying to make something happen.

And what exactly can the fans do that they aren't already doing to "get what we all want." What are your ideas? I'm down to join up if someone wants to come up with an idea and make it happen. I'd ditch my own idea in a second if someone else was putting something together. But no one is as far as I can tell. People called for a petition and I signed it. People called for phoning the Maloofs and I did. I haven't seen any other ideas of late.

Last, I understand the point that others may not find "sell the team" skillful. That's fine and I haven't chastized anyone for not wanting to do so. That's your choice. My problem is that very few alternatives are offered and, even when they are and adjustments are made, no one still wants to comitt.

And I resent the sadistic comment, "Hammer."

First I think you meant "sarcastic" but that's neither here nor there.

There is an ACTIVE group of people (#FANS) that is now nationally known and respected that was started right here at Kingsfans.com by our own Mike0476, also known as Obi-Wan Tavares. He has worked tirelessly for the cause of keeping the Kings in Sacramento AND/OR doing everything possible to get an new sports and entertainment complex built in Sacramento.

You asked for opinions and feedback and you got some, from some of the most dedicated people on the planet. I understand your passion and commend it. But when you do get advise from those who have been in this fight for over a year, you might think of joining their forces.

People like Mike, Warhawk, kennadog and Capt. Factorial (among others) have given their own time and trudged down to city council meetings to show their support. That's huge and it is one of the reasons the city council even voted in the first place to allow the arena deal to proceed.

"Sell the team" is not going to do anything, in my most humble and respectful opinion, to help further the #FANS or #Biggerthanbasketball agenda. If the Maloofs are serious about not wanting to sell, you won't change their mind and, as has been pointed out above, you might just tarnish the reputation that Sacramento fans have worked very hard to maintain this past year. If they are planning on selling, it won't be because of your efforts.

I do not mean to be rude or disrespectful in any way, but it seems like you're totally missing the point.

EDIT: I was busily typing this and did not see your response to Warhawk until I had posted it. Please keep the faith. There are things happening behind the scenes. It is truly #BiggerThanBasketball and it ain't over yet.

Peace and GO KINGS!!!

 

[The Hammer]

First off I'm no longer calling for a chant exactly because I've been listening to others. The problem is that trying to incorporate others ideas doesn't get anywhere. First the funeral idea was no bueno, sit it was dropped for a chant. Then the chant is felt too aggressive, so that is changed to holding up signs to honk for new owners. I'm just trying to make something happen.

And what exactly can the fans do that they aren't already doing to "get what we all want." What are your ideas? I'm down to join up if someone wants to come up with an idea and make it happen. I'd ditch my own idea in a second if someone else was putting something together. But no one is as far as I can tell. People called for a petition and I signed it. People called for phoning the Maloofs and I did. I haven't seen any other ideas of late.

Last, I understand the point that others may not find "sell the team" skillful. That's fine and I haven't chastized anyone for not wanting to do so. That's your choice. My problem is that very few alternatives are offered and, even when they are and adjustments are made, no one still wants to comitt.

And I resent the sadistic comment, "Hammer."

The technical definition of sadism is taking pleasure in other people's pain or discomfort. The fact that it has taboo connotation is something you'll have to deal with. But you clearly described how much you wanted to watch them be humiliated. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

You did call off the chant plan because of feedback, but you insulted half the board on your way out. That's what prompted my comments. I could care less if you don't "really, really, appreciate my comments " but I'm not going to let you just dump on people cause they didn't go along with you, at least without saying something. You didn't directly "chastize" but you insinuated it with the lack of "committment" or some such.

Now, as far as ideas on how the average fan can help... I think things like what Mike and Warhawk are doing are hugely helpful. They get themselves on tv what seems to be regularly. Aside from that kind of stuff... I don't know (and I'm not local, so...). But part of me isn't actually worried at all. This game is being played at much higher levels, and frankly I think we've already won.

 

[The Hammer]

First I think you meant "sarcastic" but that's neither here nor there.

Peace and GO KINGS!!!

No, he meant sadistic. And that's what I said.

 

[kingofthejungle]

Ok

Like I said before Hammer, I'm not looking for a war of words. I was frustrated at what I perceived as a lack of response but really I did get a lot of suggestions and a few folks from here have joined. Anyway, we are all Kings' fans here and I'm not trynig to pee you or anyone else off, maybe just a little impulsive with my most recent posts (actually, maybe most of them?).

I actually spoke with Mike this weekend and have already joined his group. I plan on attending future city hall meetings. I feel bad for not being involved before now. I respectfully disagree that a handful of fans with poster boards that say "Honk for New Owners" will tarnish Sacramento's reputation. My ego isn't that big for goodness sakes! I'll be lucky if I can even get one local station to cover the damn thing, and even then I expect it will mostly reflect a) that fans are still involved and care b) and that we are not happy. It isn't disrespectul, crude, etc. to protest especially when a cause is as clearly one sided as this. There will be no "fighting words" being spoken.

My comment that I "really, really appreciate your comments" was clearly addressed to Warhawk and was completely sincere; what he wrote really helped me get some perspective. I was a little upset about the sadistic and selfish comments but probably deserved them. Just never been called sadistic before (selfish plenty).

KOTJ

 

[The Hammer]

Like I said before Hammer, I'm not looking for a war of words. I was frustrated at what I perceived as a lack of response but really I did get a lot of suggestions and a few folks from here have joined. Anyway, we are all Kings' fans here and I'm not trynig to pee you or anyone else off, maybe just a little impulsive with my most recent posts (actually, maybe most of them?).

I actually spoke with Mike this weekend and have already joined his group. I plan on attending future city hall meetings. I feel bad for not being involved before now. I respectfully disagree that a handful of fans with poster boards that say "Honk for New Owners" will tarnish Sacramento's reputation. My ego isn't that big for goodness sakes! I'll be lucky if I can even get one local station to cover the damn thing, and even then I expect it will mostly reflect a) that fans are still involved and care b) and that we are not happy. It isn't disrespectul, crude, etc. to protest especially when a cause is as clearly one sided as this. There will be no "fighting words" being spoken.

My comment that I "really, really appreciate your comments" was clearly addressed to Warhawk and was completely sincere; what he wrote really helped me get some perspective. I was a little upset about the sadistic and selfish comments but probably deserved them. Just never been called sadistic before (selfish plenty).

KOTJ

All good. Agree about Warhawk's comments.

Go Kings!

 

[Dreamtiger]

If anyone has really deep pockets, I'd like to see every single fan at the game provided with a cowbell on their way in.

 

[HndsmCelt]

I guess this is as good a thread as any to say this: I really do not think the Maloofs can afford to sell the team. At present the Kings appear to be the only investment they have that MAY be turning a profit. In the past decade or so the Billionaire Maloofs have sold the recession proof beverage distribution business to shore up their mega casino. Then they were forced to sell their majority ownership in the Palms (they retain a 2% ownership) plowing the reaming monies into real-estate investments and stock in Well Fargo. They now are the single largest shareholder in WF who incidentally just had their annual shareholder meeting in San Francisco where it was announced that the shares only lost 15% of value in 2012. Best guesses are they have about 300 million tied up in WF stock and own 52 % of the Kings. The entire team is valued at 300-350 million so they have at best a 200 million dollar value there but owe the city 75 Million, they owe the NBA 75 million and would owe an additional 30 million to the city if they move meaning a sale might net them at most say 50 million and might yield nothing at all unless the NBA essentially bribes them to sell by offering to reduce or forgive their debt. They have to know that their business moves have so far reduced the family fortune by at least 50% and with no clear place to put any proceeds I would guess the Maloofs are stuck.

They are very much like the countless people you can see living in ritzy neighborhoods who can just barely afford the house payment now, living in a Mc Mansion falling into disrepair, with weeds in the front yard and bill collectors circling. They can’t afford to sell, but can only barely afford to stay. Fans might do better to hold signs demanding the NBA to “Buy Them Out”

 

[swisshh]

I am for the chant and hope to hear it on TV. Don't let the issue fall out of the spotlight. That only hurts Sacramento's cause. Nobody should care that KJ and a Maloof are talking. Don't fall into a battered wife situation. The Maloofs have shown their hand. Sacramento needs to make sure this is too volatile to let the NBA allow the Maloofs to get away with the team.

 

[kingofthejungle]

Event has been cancelled.

A lot of folks bowed out at the last second. Wanted to update this thread ASAP in case folks were using it for news. Pretty bumed but at least we tried.

 

[kingofthejungle]

Can't say how I know this, but ...

... one of the Maloofs apparently heard about the "Here We Sell" chant and was very worried. Apparently security was notified and the plan was to escort folks off the property. Wouldn't have been a problem since we were going to use public space, but still says something about their fear level. I'm not going to the game or protesting any more because the numbers didn't pan, but thought folks might be interested to hear about this. Should be an interesting game both for draft purposes and arena drama.

 

[Dreamtiger]

There are lots of people that work for MSE, so I'm sure some of them visit this as well as other Kings sites. Maybe not necessarily to spy but to gauge the overall mood of fans.

Which is why when I'm ready to initiate my grand plans to toilet paper the Palms, I will enlist help using the same encrypted technology employed by Al Quaeda.