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Hornets, Knights leaders keeping close eye on Panthers' sale

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The president of the Charlotte Hornets and the general manager of the Charlotte Knights said they are on the same team regarding new Carolina Panthers’ ownership.

The weight of the Panthers’ future falls on current owner Jerry Richardson, who's in the process of selling the team.

Knights COO Dan Rajkowski said he's been watching that process closely.

“It's important the ownership that comes in, or whatever ownership, and I don't know who that would be that maintains and continues that commitment to the city of Charlotte and the region,” Rajkowski said.

Hornets president Fred Whitfield said he doesn't know who the owner will be, but he is hopeful they'll choose to stay in Charlotte.

“As they're successful in their season, it certainly helps sports business as a whole in our community and helps us,” Whitfield said.

NFL owners will meet in Atlanta later this month for a vote to approve the sale.

The NFL's finance committee, which is made up of nine league owners, will start the vetting process after a winning bidder is announced.

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