
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, April 29, 1993                   TAG: 9304290257
SECTION: SPORTS                    PAGE: B4   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

NBC RENEWS CONTRACT WITH NBA

In an unprecedented move in sports television, the NBA and NBC agreed to a new four-year contract that carries no specific price tag. The NBA is guaranteed a minimum payment that exceeds its current contract for $650 million, but the deal also has provisions ensuring profitability for NBC and some revenue-sharing.

Commissioner David Stern said the NBA will continue to show a minimum of 25 regular-season games and a few more playoff games, up to 28. In addition, the NBA Finals will continue to be shown in prime time.

\ Players who throw punches or hit other players during this season's playoffs will be getting heavier penalties under a new policy established by the NBA. The new rules, announced by NBA vice president of operations Rod Thorn, provide for ejection and a one-game suspension even when a player swings at another player and misses. Previously, players who punched without connecting were ejected but not suspended.

\ After three decades of political and financial battling to replace the hallowed Boston Garden, officials promise a new arena for the Bruins and Celtics will be ready in 889 days. Civic and sports officials joined project leaders at a short groundbreaking ceremony, praising the $160 million arena that is scheduled to open for the 1995-96 basketball and hockey seasons.

by CNB