Christmas Day marked the beginning of the season for many of the NBA’s “A list” teams for the 2011-12 66 game sprint to the title. The day after marks the beginning for the rest of the league, including the transitioning still New Jersey Nets, in their final season at the Prudential Center in Newark. While the team tries to come together without its injured young star Brook Lopez and tries to find pieces to build around Deron Williams they will always find other ways to be relevant. Make no mistake about it, few teams in sport generate more buzz away from the win column than New Jersey does, especially will eyes pointing toward the Barclay’s Center opening next September.
With a lame duck season at the Pru on hand, and the Knicks grabbing the interest of the casual fan in the area again, here is a fun promo thought, which has probably already crossed the mind of CEO Brett Yormark. Almost 1/3 of the teams opening night roster has the last name Williams. Deron, Jordan Williams, Shelden Williams and newly signed Shawne Williams. While three are forwards and one is an All-Star guard, finding a time at some point to have all four on the floor will be worth watching. Furthermore, with the Nets always looking for ancillary publicity, could a fun contest amongst fans to find a fifth Williams, albeit in an unofficial role, be far away. How about a Will, Willy, Bill or even another with a last name Williams (where is former Maryland star Walt Williams these days?) be found to complete a Nets Williams five, at least for a photo?
Better yet from a ticket selling standpoint, pick a mid-January game for Williams night…anyone with the last name, or nicknamed Will or Billy, gets in for half price, or even for a ten dollar bill? Let former senator Bill Bradley tip the night off, and sponsor the night with Sherman Williams paint. In the world of professional sports it is usually the minors that come up with the fun promo ideas, yet New Jersey, in their transition from Newark to Brooklyn, has a window of opportunity to have some good natured fun, without causing distress or damage to a brand they are working hard to build.
So go at it Nets…fill the house with Williams, Wills (Will Smith, ok he is a Philly guy), Bills and Billys, and get that great ancillary coverage you enjoy. It could be another fun time for what is shaping up to be a brighter winter than some thought for the NBA as things get going on the hardwood.
