Will the Broadcasters Cup Make a Comeback in 2011?
One half of the annual NBA Gala program has been missing for the past nine years. After September 11, 2001, the NBA Board of Directors voted unanimously to end what had been a very successful six year NBA sponsored golf tournament. Nicknamed "The Broadcasters Cup", the reason for the decision was based upon the uncertainty of the economy following 9-11. The board felt that by not sponsoring a golf tournament, stations would be better able to provide stronger financial support for the Hall of Fame Dinner through the sale of ads and sponsorships; and stronger attendance through table sales. The yearly tournament was always popular, attracting 80 golfers --broadcasters and advertising agencies from throughout the state; as well as elected officials and community leaders. Who will ever forget the tournament when then Nevada Secretary of State Dean Heller shot a drive ending less than six inches from the hole and missing what would have been the first hole-in-one in tournament history. There is a photo on display in the NBA office of the late entertainer Danny Gans, whose foursome ended as one of the top three teams the year he played. An awards luncheon immediately followed each tournament; later that evening, the Hall of Fame Dinner was held. The first four years, "The Broadcasters Cup" was played on the storied Desert Inn golf course; the final two years were played on the new Revere golf course.
Now, NBA Board Chairman Thom Porterfield has raised the possibility of bringing back "The Broadcasters Cup". The golf tournament would be played on Friday morning. The dinner would then be held on Saturday night and the awards would be presented at the dinner. The NBA would arrange for a special hotel rate for northern golfers who would be coming down for the weekend. Brandy Newman -- who is experienced in planning successful golf tournaments has already volunteered to help with the planning. It is Thom's feeling that what we have done for the dinner -- attracting 500 people last year, while providing more for less at an affordable price -- we can do the same for the golf tournament. The NBA staff is going to do extensive research and will present our findings later this fall -- to both the Executive Committee for their recommendation; and the Board of Directors for their approval.
