IF LOSING HAS one benefit, it's pushing the Sixers to raise the bar for their draft party tomorrow night.
Recent drafts either have included one pick (2003-06) or a low first-rounder (2001, where they picked 26th). But this one, with the Sixers having three of the top 30 picks, has been anticipated for months. So the team has decided to "go above and beyond with our fans to show them how much we appreciate them," Sixers exec Lara Price said yesterday.
Their draft-night program includes a session for season-ticketholders at the Wachovia Center from 4 to 7 p.m., where they'll serve food and offer a meet and greet with current players and alumni. Those expected to attend include Bobby Jones and Clint Richardson from the 1983 championship team, current Duke assistant Johnny Dawkins and 1992 top pick
Clarence Weatherspoon. At the same time, a sale events for prospective clients will be held at Finnigan's Wake, 3rd and Spring Garden streets. Other players are expected there. Finally, for what might be the first time ever, the general public will be welcome to the party anytime after 7.
Admission is free and concessions will be open.
Fans can watch the draft unfold on the overhead screen and be treated to an in-arena show hosted by Marc Zumoff and Bob Salmi. During breaks in the draft action, those two will interview the players in attendance and Villanova coach Jay Wright, who will offer his distinctive insight on the selections. Visitors are cautioned to be aware that the Phillies are home for a Fireworks Night game vs. the Reds, so the landscape will have the look of an Eagles Sunday.
My favorite panel responses to how they would market the Phillies' 10,000th loss:
My favorite panel responses to how they would market the Phillies' 10,000th loss:
Nathan Marinoff: Perhaps a "The First 10,000 are the Hardest" T-shirt giveaway.
John Tidd: Donate 10,000 eggs to the Philadelphia Food Bank (10,000 as in eggs laid).
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- Paul Vigna
Comments on Sixers advice, Phillies at go.philly.com/10000
Join the panel? Send e-mail to vignap@phillynews.com
