The NBA has come a long way from just a few years ago when it struggled to find a buyer for the New Orleans Hornets and had to take control of the team. With higher debt opportunities and increased valuations, some owners may suddenly be looking to sell, especially before the probable CBA negotiations and potential lockout after the 2016-2017 season. The next likely sale of a franchise – the Atlanta Hawks – may indicate the kind of impact this will have on the types of new owners.