NBC dumps Arena Football

from the futon critic

AFL & NBC FAIL TO REACH EXTENSION AGREEMENT

NEW YORK June 30, 2006 - The Arena Football League and NBC Sports have
failed to reach an agreement to extend their broadcasting contract,
both organizations jointly announced today. The AFL will immediately
begin broadcast discussions with numerous organizations.

Casey McDonald's Guidance Counsellor, Ian J. Ball...

I'm shocked. Shocked, I tell you.

"NBC has been a great partner," said AFL Commissioner David Baker. "We
are forever grateful to them for exhibiting our game with the utmost
respect and integrity. We wish them well, but are also excited to
begin a new chapter that will continue our unprecedented growth."

Ken Schanzer, President, NBC Sports said: "Unfortunately we were
unable to reach an agreement. We've enjoyed our partnership with the
Arena Football League. It's a great game with great people. We wish
them all the best."

Howard U. Dewing...

My guess is that Arena Football asked for some money, and NBC said "No."

Larry Smith...

But did NBC give them the Star Jones treatment and allow them to make
up their own explanations as to why they're not returning???

elf...

It sure seems like that's just what NBC did. They most likely told the AFL
"Hey, we've got the NFL back and we no longer need your sorry ass.
However, if you'd like we'll put a nice public face on it and say we
couldn't reach an agreement." The AFL did the smart thing and agreed to
what is most likely a public charade, but one that lets them retain their
dignity. (Yes, I know I mentioned the Arena Football League and dignity in
the same sentence. amazing, eh?)