This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Press release:
The National Basketball Players Association ("NBPA") announced today it has been informed by the American Arbitration Association ("AAA") that a majority of NBA players have authorized the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) to serve as their collective bargaining representative. In less than forty eight hours over 300 players submitted authorization cards to the AAA, which has been collecting and verifying the cards. Pursuant to this authorization and recognition from the NBA, the NBPA and NBA can now move forward towards the completion of negotiations for a new a collective bargaining agreement, with players expected to hold an in-person vote on whether to ratify the agreement by the end of next week.
On behalf of the NBPA, we thank fans worldwide for their patience as we work quickly to get professional basketball back on the court.
Brian T. Smith
Twitter: @tribjazz