NBA Lockout: League Postpones Training Camp Indefinitely, Cancels 43 Preseason Games *Updated*

Here is the official release:

NBA POSTPONES TRAINING CAMPS FOR 2011-12 SEASON, CANCELS 43 PRESEASON GAMES


NEW YORK, September 23, 2011--The NBA announced today that player training camps for the 2011-12 season have been postponed indefinitely because a new collective bargaining agreement has not been reached with the National Basketball Players Association. Training camps were scheduled to open on October 3.

In addition, the league canceled all preseason games scheduled from October 9 through October 15.

"We have regretfully reached the point on the calendar where we are not able to open training camps on time and need to cancel the first week of preseason games," said NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver. "We will make further decisions as warranted."

The move was expected but certainly isn't what we wanted to hear. It is however now official. As we talked about earlier today, next week's talks become even more crucial with each passing day. Their is roughly a two to three week window now to get a deal done before regular season games will also be forced to be canceled.

The Hawks will lose four preseason games.

Oct 10 Vs Detroit
Oct 12 @ Lakers
Oct 13 @ Clippers
Oct 15 @ Lakers

*Updated*

Shortly after the release, the Atlanta Hawks fans received an email from Team President Bob Williams. Here is that email:

We appreciate your continued patience as the NBA and the NBA Players Association work towards reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. Because no such agreement has been reached at this time, the league made the difficult decision to cancel all preseason games scheduled through October 15, 2011.

Please know that as a fan, you are a vital part of the Atlanta Hawks team and we value your support. We want to assure you that the league’s efforts are focused on reaching an agreement that benefits all parties involved, including you. As I have mentioned before, the ultimate goal is to find a sustainable business model that enables all 30 teams to compete for a championship, fairly compensates players, and ensures a world-class experience for our fans and the NBA will continue to work to reach that goal.

We will continue to keep you informed as we become aware of changes and updates.

Thank you for your support and your continued loyalty to the Atlanta Hawks.

Sincerely,

Bob Williams
President, Atlanta Hawks & Philips Arena