Pond Hasn’t Heard Back From Grizzlies’ Owner

Arrowhead Pond executives said Friday they have yet to hear from Michael Heisley, the man they hope to persuade to bring his basketball team to Anaheim.

On Monday, NBA Commissioner David Stern gave Heisley permission to explore moving his Vancouver Grizzlies as soon as this summer. Pond General Manager Tim Ryan immediately expressed interest, but Heisley has yet to return the call.

“We’ve made our interest clear to the NBA,” said Mike O’Donnell, assistant general manager of the Pond. Ryan left Friday for a weeklong vacation.

New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial said this week he has spoken several times with Heisley. The city opened a new arena in 1999 but has yet to attract an NBA or NHL team. Nashville officials also acknowledged several discussions with Heisley.

Heisley must notify the NBA by March 1 if he wishes to move next season. Officials in Louisville, St. Louis, San Jose and Long Island also have expressed interest in landing the Grizzlies.