Rockets attorney Michael Goldberg, who is currently in Korea, is headed back to China after being invited by the CBA to continue talks. Goldberg was quoted as saying he has been invited back to try and "wrap things up". From Fox 26 - Mark Berman
Just to add, Berman had quotes from CD and Rudy T saying that it could take a while based on what they heard from the CBA about the Chinese government. The fact that Goldberg was invited back this soon is a significant sign that things were going well. CBA officials were extremely impressed with Goldberg.
If anyone could learn anything from the Rockets organization, it is patience(and class). This organization is professional. If they want something they will go out and get it. I knew it would work out. And it will. Never doubt this organization's ability to negotiate.
Way to go Rockets! Nice to see they didn't: 1. Shrivel from the task of the seemingly/allegedly insurmountable odds of getting they guy they really want,and 2.Fall for all the sudden negative opinions on Yao being expressed by so many teams and media members who,before the lottery,had nothing but high praise for Yao. Kudos for being independent thinkers willing to go out on a limb when others are sneering at you. We'll see who has the last laugh!!!
Im sure sending Rudy Tomjonavich over to China had a very positive effect on the CBA officials, Shanghi Sharks, Yao Mings parents and most importantly, Yao Ming. Who's going to garner more respect when he walks through the doors of the chinese basketball world...the Don Nelsons and Jerry Krause's or Rudy Tomjonavich? Rudys fame may have been part of the reason for getting an invitation to China, but his cool personality and likable character are probably the reasons for the quick and sudden invite back. thanks for the update, Jeff.
One theory on why Goldberg is in Korea: World Cup! The US is still in action in Korea, and if Goldberg was already in the area and had a few days to spare...
Random Fact: The only country in the world that consumes more alcohol per capita than Russia is South Korea. There is a traditional distilled liquor, known as 'soju' that, while it's actual ingredients are somewhat hard to pin down, is reminicent of Vodka. You can read an article about the Korean penchant for hooch here. Feel free to inser the obligatory RudyT-Sake joke here, but I've always found this little anomaly to be somewhat intresting.
Good guess! Goldberg is in Korea for the World Cup. This and the news about the invite back to China was mentioned early this evening on 740am. I wonder if the other teams are still calling CD for a blockbuster deal? os
Actually, Goldberg is my 2nd cousin's roommate's brother. Michael went to Korea to covertly cross through the heavily militarized Korean border, up to P'yongyang and then attempt to <i>sneak</i> the 7'7" prospective center to Soeul. Goldberg and I spoke as he transmittted video with a pocketsize satellite he had recently bought on the blackmarket in Hong Kong. "The negotiations in China we're entirely disappointing. I expected a lot more resistance from every angle. The Chinese are nothing compared to David Falk. I'd deal with players represented by Stalin and Mao Zedung before I'd talk with that power munger. I think the defection of a North Korean would be the ultimate challenge. Just as long as I don't have to deal with Falk." Take it for what it's worth. And no, I didn't take any pictures but you have to believe me!
Possum quote: Not to mention his love for saki! yep..the Chinese were honored by Rudys love for saki and his love for girls who say, "me love you looong time".
Japan and China are very different countries. It's like saying Germany is known for the Wine or France is known for their Beer. Looks like things are being wrapped up with the negotiations, except for the Chinese Government, who may have a different agenda then the Sharks and CBA. However, since they will be getting paid, I see no reason why the 'deal' won't get done. The big question is whether the Rockets have a press-conference before the draft once a deal is done announcing their intentions to take Yao #1. I'm guessing that even if they could work a trade and get Yao at #3, the Rockets wouldn't want to in this unique situation.
