Tom Gores continued to negotiate a possible purchase of the Pistons on Friday as the latest exclusive arrangement for talks with owner Karen Davidson expired.

There was no announcement of an agreement to extend the exclusive negotiations, but sources claim another extension is a possibility.

Davidson, the widow of previous owner Bill Davidson, said 13 months ago she would sell the franchise, but the process is problematic because of the soft economy in Michigan and nationally.

"The fact that they are still talking is about the best news to have, right now," said an observer. "This is a really tough nut to crack.

"But to me it means both sides realize they are within striking distance of an agreement. And, frankly, I do not read anything at all into the fact that they did not complete it this week."