10-02-2013, 08:13 PM
I'm not mentioning any names here, but certain people seem to still whinging to anyone who will listen about the panini nba deal. These same people are still of the opinion that Panini forced upper deck and topps out of the market. Totally untrue. Remember, Upper and topps declined to renew their contracts with the nba citing financial difficulties due to the economic distress back in 2009. Since then, both companies have had a chance to renew their contract - but have declined once more. Another thing to remember is this - the NBA committee puts together the package and presents it to interested companies, not the other way around. in 2009, David Stern wanted more emphasis on international marketing in the deal he presented to upper deck, topps and Panini. Please tell me how it is a tyranny when other companies have an opportunity to sign a contract yet decline? Basic business 101, people.