Media & Entertainment Law

This afternoon, Congressman Cohen sent a letter to NBA President Joel Litvin expressing his concern that players are harmed by the rule. The Congressman also requested that he meet with Litvin and Commissioner David Stern. Here's an excerpt from the AP Story:

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In a letter sent to Litvin Monday, Cohen maintained that players should have the "economic freedom'' to make their own decisions. He said he understood that the policy may help the league in its scouting and hiring decisions.

"However, my concern is that the players who must abide by this rule are harmed by the league's pursuit of these business interests,'' the congressman wrote, adding that the "age discrimination'' prevents players from supporting their families.

The policy increases the chance that such players will be injured before getting the chance to play in the NBA, he added.

"I am concerned that the careers of young men who possess all the skills necessary to succeed in the NBA,'' Cohen wrote, "may be sacrificed in favor of the bottom lines of the teams on which they hope to play.''

Cohen, a member of the House Judiciary Committee, asked for a meeting with Litvin and Commissioner David Stern. Cohen has said that that he'd consider both hearings and legislation if the requirement remains.

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Full post as published by Sports Law Blog on July 20, 2009 (boomark / email).