‘All In’

I wrote an earlier blog post about Derek Jeter’s website, “The Players Tribune,” that allows athletes to communicate directly with fans, thereby going around the media filter. Earlier today, Kevin Love used this platform to announce his decision to remain in Cleveland, much to the delight of Cavaliers fans.

His message was simple and direct: “I’m going back to Cleveland.”

The lesson for organization is this: If you want your message to be heard and not distorted, communicate directly with those who matter most. That’s what Kevin Love did today, dispelling rumors created by earlier media reports that had him meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers. Thankfully, there’s no doubt now. After the team’s great performance in the playoffs this year with Love injured in the Boston series and Kyrie Irving injured in game one of the NBA finals, we can’t wait for next year.

Here’s the post:

http://www.theplayerstribune.com/kevin-love-cavaliers-unfinished-business/

Author: Barbara Paynter

Barbara Paynter is president of Paynter Communications LLC, a Cleveland-based public relations firm specializing in strategic communications, reputation management, crisis communications and issues management. Paynter Communications also provides litigation support and media relations services to its clients.