The New Jersey Nets are playing a preseason game tonight at the Prudential Center in Newark. Tonights matchup with the Boston Celtics is the first of two scheduled preseason games to be played at the Prudential Center which has been nicknamed, The Rock. The second contest is scheduled for October 21st against the New York Knicks.

Can a meaningless preseason game really mean so much?? Many people believe these two games are tests to see just how much appeal the Nets can bring with them in Newark. Personally, I think this is right where the Nets should be. They currently play in the out of date IZOD center. During most games, at least half the IZOD center is empty. There is no Mass Transit available to Nets games because attendance does not meet the requirements.

Downtown Newark has been going through a revitalization. Many people have invested in the area. The Prudential Center is a center piece of all of this. More and more restaurants are opening up around the arena. You also have the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) just a few blocks away. Fans can take Mass Transit to Newark Penn Station and walk just two blocks to The Rock. Driving is fairly simple to as many people can take a quick ride on Route 78 to McCarter Highway and that pretty much takes you right to the arena.

New Jersey has basketball in its blood, especially in the city schools. I believe Newark and the Prudential Center can truly rejuvenate the Nets fan base. A move to Newark would put the Nets back on the map in the NBA. More fans from the central and southern counties in the state would be much more willing to make the trip. Think about a Nets game with a large, noisy and positive crowd. That can happen...in Newark, not the Meadowlands and certainly not Brooklyn.

Bring the Nets to Newark. The Nets need this. New Jersey needs this. Just ask the Devils how much they love this place. And if you still dont believe them, ask Bon Jovi, Dane Cook, Britney Spears, Celine Dion and all the other big name acts that performed here. The Prudential Center is the place to be! The NCAA realized it and have signed on to have their Regional round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament played here. Its time the Nets open their eyes as well!