New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill Wants the Nets Back in Jersey

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Mikey Sherrill's Dubious Pitch: Return the Nets to Brooklyn?

Mikey Sherrill has reportedly proposed that the Brooklyn Nets should return to Brooklyn, a statement that many find improbable considering the team's current situation and history. The Brooklyn Nets, who have settled into their new home with an 18,000-seat arena, are not likely to return to New Jersey. Historical attendance issues at the former venue, known variously as the Izod Center, Brendan Byrne Arena, and Continental Airlines Arena, often saw very low turnouts, sometimes as few as 1,000 spectators.

The lack of support wasn’t exclusive to the Nets; even the New Jersey Devils had their moments despite winning Stanley Cups in the 1990s. Their celebrations were modestly held in their parking lot. With the current vibrancy of Brooklyn and the comparative lack of engagement in New Jersey sports, the suggestion to move the Nets back seems unfounded.

Moreover, with the New York Knicks reaching the NBA Finals, local interest in the Nets appears minimal, leading to a humorous suggestion that the team might as well relocate to Maine, expecting similar fan engagement levels there as in New Jersey.