Mark Ibanez is close to signing a three-year re-up at KTVU where the veteran sports anchor has been since 1979. That's 35 years. That's a lot of staying power --if you're a fan of Ibanez, (like me) don't celebrate just yet.
A source close to the Bay Area native told me nothing is official yet. As a matter of fact, the source told 415 Media that another station in the Bay Area has flirted with Ibanez about coming over across the bay. I was asked not to name the station in exchange for the information but I can tell you the outlet is sincere about courting Ibanez.
My gut says that Ibanez would prefer to stay at KTVU even though KTVU's ownership, (Fox), has changed and management is new. That's not an issue. In fact, Ibanez is said to have a "great" relationship with hard-nosed GM, Gregg Kelley, who came from Boston's WFXT.
"Right now, it's 80-20 that Mark stays", said the source. "He lives in Napa and has a very comfortable lifestyle and the thought of him leaving Channel 2 would mean the other station would really have to make him an offer he couldn't refuse."
Ibanez' contract is up April 1.
Stay tuned. We should know in about a week or so.
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