DES MOINES, Iowa (May 16, 2007) — Iowa’s NBA Development Team is holding a news conference today at 3:30 p.m. in the theater of the Iowa Hall of Pride to announce a partnership with the state’s high school basketball associations.

On hand to announce the partnership will be: Gov. Chet Culver; Jerry Crawford, investor and team co-founder; Rick Wulkow, executive director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association, and Troy Dannen, the executive director of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union.

“We’ve reached agreement on an innovative joint venture that integrates the excitement of high school basketball with the talent and professional caliber of play that our new developmental league team will bring to Iowa,” Crawford explained. “In essence, our home games will be exhibition doubleheaders designed to appeal to a broader cross-section of fans, entertain and highlight Iowa high school basketball.”

High school match-ups of teams from across the state will play in the Wells Fargo Arena directly before the NBA D-League game. This will include boys and girls teams from small and large schools.

“This is a great opportunity for high schools of any size or caliber to enjoy the perks and amenities of a professional basketball venue like full arena support including audio, video and game support services,” Crawford added.

To maintain the team spirit and fun that accompanies high school sports, the schools participating will be encouraged to have their pep bands, cheerleaders and dance squads take part in the double-header games. The students who participate in the double-header events will be featured during the presentation of the NBA D-League game. D-league organizers intend to feature some exhibition type match-ups highlighting teams from inside and outside central Iowa. This endeavor allows talented high school students to play aside and learn from professional athletes.

“We thank Rick Wulkow and Troy Dannen for their support and vision in making this partnership a reality,” Crawford said. “We believe people will enjoy watching the combination of talented high school athletes and professional basketball in one evening. And it should be a great learning and teaching experience for all of the athletes and coaches.”

The Iowa NBA D-League expansion team was announced on February 27 at Wells Fargo Arena. The local investors include Jerry Crawford, Gary Kirke, Paul Drey, Sheldon Ohringer, Michael Richards and Bruce Rastetter.

For More Information, Contact: Jamie G. Buelt, 515-248-1797 or (mobile) 515-249-1857