SACRAMENTO, Calif. (March 11, 2008) -  Real estate developer Bob Cook has purchased a 50% interest in the Sacramento Capitals, the reigning World TeamTennis Pro League champions.  Cook, owner of Bob Cook Development, LLC, was one of the original partners that purchased the NBA Kansas City Kings in 1983 and helped the team move to Sacramento in 1985.  He remains a partner in the operation of the Sacramento Kings, the Sacramento Monarchs and Arco Arena with the Maloof family.  Terms of the deal were not disclosed.  

 

Lonnie Nielson, owner of the team for 10 years, is pleased to have Cook on board with the team.  “He brings tremendous sports business experience to the Capitals with his ownership in the Kings,” said Nielson.  “Bob has diverse contacts in the community, and he is interested in seeing the team be even more successful on the court and off the court.  I am looking forward to a great partnership.”

 

Cook is excited to become involved in a business focused on one of his favorite activities.  “I love tennis,” said Cook. “Lonnie and the Capitals staff have been committed to running a best-in-class operation and that has been reflected in their success on the court and their tremendous fan support.  I’m excited to be part of it as we work towards taking the Capitals to the next level." 

 

Cook and Nielson are also collaborating on Le Rivage, a new luxury hotel in Sacramento (pictured – l., Nielson, and r., Cook).  The two, along with other partners John Chandler and Bob Leach, hosted a January 31st ribbon-cutting celebration to launch the new venture. The 105-room boutique hotel will be one of Sacramento’s finest additions.  Nielson said, “It’s a unique opportunity to create a new energy along the river with this one-of-a-kind development.  I’m pleased to partner with Bob, John and Bob.  I look forward to many fun nights at Scott’s and LeRivage with my clan of 8 kids.”

 

About the Sacramento Capitals:  The Capitals will play their 23rd season of World TeamTennis action July in Allstate Stadium, Westfield's Galleria at Roseville, July 3-23.  For the second consecutive year, the defending title holders will host the World TeamTennis Championship Weekend, July 24-27.  The Capitals won a league-record 6th King Trophy last July with an exciting win over the New York Buzz of Schenectady, N.Y.  Season tickets for 2008, including Championship Weekend tickets, are on sale now at 916-638-4001 ext.111.

 

About LeRivage Hotel:  LeRivage Hotel is 105-room boutique hotel located at 4350 Riverside Boulevard, Sacramento, Calif.  For reservations call 800-323-7500.

 

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For More Information, contact Lonnie Nielson, (916) 638-4001