'Ballers' on HBO aims to be rare sports-themed series with winning game plan

'Ballers' on HBO aims to be rare sports-themed series with winning game plan

The record-breaking ratings accompanying the tsunami of recent sports blockbusters, from the NBA Finals to the Stanley Cup playoffs to the Triple Crown to the Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao bout, proves one of life's most undeniable truths — America is stricken with sports fever.

But despite the phenomenal behemoth of live athletics on TV, it's a whole other ballgame when it comes to the prime-time scripted arena. Comedies and dramas set in the sports world during the last few decades have not had winning records.

Among the numerous losses are FX's boxing drama "Lights Out," USA Network's football comedy "Necessary Roughness" and ABC's baseball family comedy "Back in the Game" with James Caan. Even "The Bad News Bears," a hit in theaters, struck out on the small screen. And despite its critical acclaim, "Friday Night Lights" never drew a large audience.

Read the full story in LA Times.

VISIT FLORIDA Launches First Ever Black History Month Campaign with BET.
VISIT FLORIDA Launches First Ever Black History Month Campaign with BET. VISIT FLORIDA collaborated with destination partners in Miami, Overtown, Orlando and Eatonville, as well as prominent African Americans in the travel and tourism community, to create a series of short stories that tell of the rich heritage and culture found around the state. more...

U.S. Census Bureau Announces Increase in Economic Impact By Motion Picture and Video Industry
U.S. Census Bureau announced the nation’s motion picture and video industry (NAICS 5121) – covering the entire process from production to projection − increased $1.2 billion (1.5 percent), from $79.8 billion in 2007 to $81.0 billion in 2012. These receipt totals include ticket and concession revenue. more...