basket! Shaquille O'Neal executing another thunderous dunking assault on the rim, or Charles Barkley bullying his way up-court! Only on television? Not if local businessman David Ezekiel has his way.

Ezekiel is currently negotiating to have two leading NBA teams perform in a pre-season game on the Island prior to the 1994-95 season, possibly Jordan's world champion Chicago Bulls and runners-up Phoenix Suns, containing the irrepressible Barkley.

"If we can we would obviously like to get the two teams that were in last year's final, but clearly the cost would be more than if we were to have any of the expansion teams,'' said Ezekiel. "We would definitely love to have the Bulls down.

"If we put it on we would want to get two of the major teams.'' However, while optimistic of having a game here, Ezekiel stressed that it was still too early to confirm any plans.

A proposal has been received from the offices of the NBA and it is understood that a court would be transported to Bermuda in the event of the project reaching fruition.

"I've met with NBA executive vice-president Russ Granik and commissioner David Stern,'' said Ezekiel, who lists the NBA as one of his clients.

"They're keen to do it if we can handle the package.

"I think we can cover most of the finances largely by ticket sales. The major hurdle is finding a suitable venue.

"I would say that there is better than a 50-50 chance of it happening.'' Bermuda has seemingly become a haven for several current and past NBA players and even coaches. Just last week legends Larry Bird and Julius (Dr. J) Erving were here as part of a convention put on by basketball shoe giant Converse.

Jordan has visited several times and in July a bevy of players stayed at the Sonesta Beach Hotel, taking in seminars directed by the NBA Players Association.

An obvious lure is the number of high quality golf courses contained on the Island, and with many basketball players apparently seeking solace on the links these days Bermuda looks a good catch.

"What we're hoping to do is to put on a pro-am tournament the day before, which should interest them,'' said Ezekiel.

He added that the wish was to be able to benefit charities as well as present the sport to the Island's youngsters and give them the opportunity to see these NBA stars in action.

No-one from the NBA offices could not be reached for comment yesterday.

MICHAEL JORDAN -- The NBA superstar could be on show if David Ezekiel's dream of bringing two pro basketball teams to Bermuda in 1994 come to fruition.