I don't understand how the NBA could give Charlotte this team when they
could not market the last one. Was anyone else in the running?
The perception - probably pretty valid - was that the real problem was
hatred of the absolute scum bag (in ways that Gaston for his faults would
never dream of) prior owner, not the sort of generalized fan disinterest
polluting support for decades in places like Atlanta. They honestly
supported them well at first, even given how much competition there is
there with college hoops popularity. So you pair a perception that the fans
shouldn't be punished for responding to the faults of an owner who should
only be approached in a decontamination kit, with what I think is a pretty
strong desire by the league to take advantage of the area as a prime US
hoops hotbed, because of the colleges. I'm not sure I completely agree with
it all but given that they couldn't force out Shinn, I think that's the
general underpinnings. I rather think there's some intentional slap in the
face to Shinn in the move too.