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| | Thursday, April 13 | |||||
| BALTIMORE, Md. -- The International Basketball League announced Wednesday that Baltimore Orioles star Cal Ripken, Jr. purchased the remaining 90 percent of the Baltimore BayRunners, becoming the sole owner of the franchise. Ripken had previously purchased 10 percent of the club on Oct. 13, 1999. "This is a great opportunity for the city of Baltimore and its many basketball fans," said Ripken. "Baltimore has a strong basketball heritage, and I look forward to continuing that legacy with the BayRunners by taking advantage of regional talent and showcasing Maryland ball players." "We're extremely excited to have Cal as a majority owner in the IBL," said league CEO Art Cipriani. "Cal's dedication, class, family values, and commitment to Baltimore represent all the things we look for in an owner. He is also a dedicated professional that understands the concept of a minor league system. Major league baseball has developed the world's best minor league system, and to have ownership with Cal's knowledge and insight into that success story only helps move the IBL toward a bigger and brighter future." Part of the agreement will be the continued use of Ripken in a promotional campaign featuring the future Hall of Famer in radio, television, print and billboard advertisements. "What is truly exciting about Cal joining the League as a full-time owner is the fact that he believes the IBL is going to succeed," said league president Thaxter R. Trafton. "Cal doesn't rush into anything. He is very thorough in everything he does, on and off the field." The IBL's schedule runs from late November through May, with the playoffs beginning May 5. |  | |||||
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