This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The NBA Development League confirmed Saturday that the Utah Flash are for sale and will go on hiatus for the 2011-12 season.
The Flash are the NBADL affiliate for the Utah Jazz and Atlanta Hawks.
"We thank [Flash owner] Brandt Andersen, the organization, and the Utah Flash fans for all of their support of the team over the past four years, and are actively working with the team to find new ownership," NBADL commissioner Dan Reed said.
Attempts to reach Andersen, Flash president Drew Sellers and coach Kevin Young were unsuccessful.
The NBADL issued a prepared statement from Andersen.
"After much thought and consideration, I have decided to sell my interest in the Utah Flash to focus on my other businesses," Andersen said. "While I conduct this search the team will go on hiatus for the 2011-12 season. I have enjoyed the experience and thank all who have worked for the organization, played for the team, and attended Flash games over the past four years. I am grateful to the NBA and believe the NBA D-League is a great league with a very bright future."
Sellers was specifically asked May 10 if there was any danger of the team relocating or any imminent major changes on the horizon. He said there were none to his knowledge. Sellers also asserted that ownership under Andersen was strong.
"Minor league sports is definitely a tough business," Sellers said May 10. "And every year after every season you have to evaluate how you're doing and whether or not it's financially viable. But with the support of Utah County I think if we continue to work hard I think the team would be happy to be here for a long time."
The Jazz used the D-League three times last season. Marcus Cousin and Kyle Weaver were added to the Jazz's roster, while Jeremy Evans played two games with the Flash.
Brian T. Smith
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