INDIANAPOLIS - The NBA commissioner has canceled the first two weeks of the regular season, impacting players, workers and fans. On top of the Colts' losing streak this season, it's bad news not only for Indiana sports fans but also for businesses that rely on those fans.
The announcement wipes seven games off the Pacers' schedule, including three home games. Fans with tickets will be entitled to full refunds. The only thing they'll miss is a good time at Conseco Fieldhouse.
But downtown Indianapolis businesses are concerned about the loss of customers, and the city stands to lose millions of tax dollars.
The mayor's office says the Pacers' organization is accountable for about 900 direct jobs and brings in $55 million a year, mainly in the hospitality industry.
"10,000, 15,000 people downtown, 50 times a year - so that's a fair chunk of people coming downtown, having a good time, spending their money in restaurants and bars and just kind of congregating together. It's gonna have some impact. I am concerned," said Mayor Greg Ballard (R).
"What I am mostly concerned about is the hospitality workers. Waiters, waitresses, cab drivers," said the mayor.
Restaurants and bars are already taking a beating. They say torn-up streets and sidewalks - renovation for next year's Super Bowl - are hurting their bottom line.
The Colt's losing streak is hurting business as well. The Colts are 0-5, the team's worst start since 1997, and local bars and restaurants have already noticed a dip in traffic.
"I've lost six employees so far," said Gordon Coke, pub owner.
Coke fears he may lose even more workers. The question centers around how long the NBA lockout will continue - and when the Colts will get their first win of the season.
"We are going to take a big hit. You look forward to making up for your slow months when the Pacers come in. We are going to lose 30 to 40 percent of our money for the months they are not playing," said Coke.
