With the NBA entering the dog days of the summer, Orlando Pinstriped Post is looking for more contributors for the upcoming season. After four long, losing filled years, the Magic appear, on the surface, ready to begin to turn the corner in their rebuild, which is an exciting time for fans, and writers alike.

Over the next month we’ll be taking applications for interested writers who are looking to join the site. Below will be a brief Q&A with some frequently asked questions.

Is it paid?

Unfortunately we’re unable to pay all of our writers at this time. If that’s a factor that rules you out, we understand.

What are the qualifications?

Ultimately we would like you to have some previous writing or reporting experience, but it’s not necessarily required. We will work with anyone and everyone who has interest in joining the site, even if they are just beginning to write. Having audio and/or video experience would be welcomed as well.

A good knowledge of the NBA and the game of basketball is required. We want contributors who are passionate about the sport and want to help others learn, while they continue to learn themselves.

Do I have to be a Magic fan?

No, there is no requirement to be a Magic fan. It certainly would not hurt you if you were a Magic fan, but we will not hold it against anyone who isn’t a fan. You will have to follow the team closely if accepted, if you do not already.

What kind of contributions do you need?

Ultimately, that will be up to you. We allow our writers to fit into what they feel they can help with the best, and how they can help continue to make OPP one of, if not the premier Magic blog out there. If that’s long-form breakdowns of the Magic’s defense with pictures, gifs and videos, or shorter pieces on why Aaron Gordon needs to become Draymond Green, we want to know what you think you can bring to the table.

There are always certain areas where we would like help, though.

• Game coverage: We always needs help with coverage of games. With 82 games in the regular season, plus eight preseason games and potential playoff games, the more people able, and willing to cover games the better. We’ll be looking for previews as well as recaps following the game, and game stories for the following morning.
• Social Media: As technology grows, so does the importance of social media. Teams, players and coaches use it to connect with fans, and it’s important we continue to grow on that front. A social media spot would include running the OPP Twitter and Facebook pages, following the Magic and Magic players to see cool and fun things they’re doing that can be shared, as well as interactions with readers.
• News: The news cycle in the NBA seemingly never ends. Even in the dog days of the summer, there’s always the chance for a big trade, a signing or a sudden resignation that we need quick coverage of. Myself, and the other contributors can’t always be around, but with the addition of others, we can always be on top of things.

How often do I need to contribute?

A lot will depend on the role and type of contributions you believe you can add. If possible, a post a week for columnist, and two-to-three for people helping with news, short form and game coverage.

How do I apply?

To apply, you’ll need to answer the following questions in an email to zoliver8812@gmail.com. Also attach a resume and writing samples, if you have them.

1. Why do you want to contribute to Orlando Pinstriped Post?
2. What is your availability like, and how often can you contribute?
3. What can you bring to Orlando Pinstriped Post to make the site better in the short, and long terms?
4. How closely do you follow the Magic, and how much do you know about the franchises history?

If you have any questions, they can be asked via email, or on twitter @ZachOliverNBA.

Timetable for applications

We expect to receive a lot of interest, which could mean it will take a while to get through all of the applications. Ideally we will be able to respond to everyone within the next few weeks, and have final answers to everyone by the end of August.