KANSAS CITY - Tired of waiting for either an NHL or NBA franchise, Sprint Arena announced today that it is leaving Kansas City for a new home in Pittsburgh. A spokesperson read a statement on behalf of the Sprint Arena: “I certainly appreciate the efforts of local leaders to keep me in Kansas City, but it has become obvious that no self-respecting NHL or NBA franchise has any intention of ever moving here. Kansas City is a one-horse town, and always will be.” Hopes had been high in recent weeks for Kansas City to lure the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, which would make Sprint Arena their new home. After the Sprint Arena hinted at moving, Mayor Kay Barnes offered it numerous incentives to remain in Kansas City, including regular paint jobs and periodic HVAC upgrades. In the end, it was not enough. A stunned Mayor Barnes first learned of the Arena’s decision to move just minutes before the press conference. "We were convinced that the Arena would not leave because of the many exciting events it hosted," she said. Mayor Barnes cited the recent Smuckers Stars on Ice spectacular, and next month’s World Famous Lipizzaner Stallions tour as evidence of the city’s efforts to make good use of the new arena.
