NBAtv and Cox Cable--NO game tonight--but...

[Snoopy the Celtics Beagle <snoopy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I just got off the phone with Cox Cable, and here's the situation as it stands.

They CANNOT show the free preview.  In order to get it, the cable provider 
has to be "in the process" at least, of signing an agreement to eventually 
show the channel.  Cox has not done so, therefore, they cannot show the 
preview.  We're stuck.

According to the person at Cox, NBAtv won't have any more playoff games 
this season after the opening round.  At least, there's been no notice 
saying so.

Now, the POSSIBLE good news.

"There is a contract on the table," per the person at Cox.  It has neither 
been accepted nor rejected, they are discussing it.  There are some issues, 
including how many games will be taken from the League Pass and put on 
NBAtv next season (no one knows), and how--or IF--it will affect the cost 
of the League Pass, not only to Cox, but to US.

Depending on what happens, and this may take through the offseason to 
settle, there are several possibilities.

1. They end up offering the League Pass and NBAtv.

2. They end up with just the League Pass.

3. They end up NOT offering EITHER.

I'm trying to be specific, here.  NO decisions have been made either 
way.  This is going to be a three way negotiation with Cox, InDemand, and 
the NBA--assuming that negotiations actually occur.  The person I talked to 
has promised to keep me updated when solid information comes out.  I have 
to exercise some care about what is said, and how.  Please do not try to 
read more into this than what is here.  I believe--but do NOT KNOW--that 
things will end positively.  We'll have to wait and see.

It was suggested that people call the NBA and make their preferences known 
on this matter.  I agree, and also reiterate my own recommendation to press 
your local provider to take your requests to the corporate level at 
Cox.  Please exercise restraint, tact and diplomacy in making your requests.

Sorry, gang.  Those of us stuck remain stuck for now.  We'll have to wait 
and see what happens later.

Snoopy the Celtics Beagle
Please visit the <http://www.celticsbeagle.net/>Celtics Beagle Website