ESPN has reported that Teams USA and Mexico are close to a deal that would send the exclamation point and the letter "K" to Mexico in exchange for Team USA's exclusive rights to the tilde.
Although Team USA officials stopped short of confirming the deal, one insider praised the trade. "In this age of spiraling salaries, you can make a strong case for the tilde. When used properly - like over the 'n' - you can get that two-for-one value."
He cited how, for example, substituting the single tilde for the "ny" combination in "canyon" would reduce payroll.
When asked about the impact on Team USA over the possible void left by the departing exclamation point, officials downplayed the loss.
"It's no big deal. The exclamation point has underperformed for years. He's always overhyped... just trying to get people excited without adding any real energy himself."
When pressed further the TEAM USA official responded "That's all we have to say. Period."
Meanwhile, Team Mexico is looking forward to its league-approved usage of "K". "It's been very costly paying royalties every time we use 'K", like in 'kilo' or 'ok'. We look forward to the depth and flexibility that 'K' will deliver to our team. This trade should give our team some real kick" beemed manager Cenney Clarc.
Although Mexico had already used the exclamation point on many occasions, the league recently sanctioned the team for its "abuse of the exclamation point by forcing it to participate inverted", a reference to Team Mexico's playing the point upside down on some occassions.
Sources say that the deal would likely lift those sanctions, and grant Mexico free reign on the exclamation point. "We can really benefit from a strong point presence" added a Team Mexico coach.
