Jul 5th, 2009 | 8:12 am |

TIM KAWAKAMI of the San JOSE Mercury news reports

Warriors owner Chris Cohan is believed to be seriously considering selling his 80% stake in the franchise in the next year or two, according to the sources. He took control of the franchise in January 1995.

In fact, one knowledgeable source said it’s “highly likely” that Cohan will sell most or all of his controlling interest in the team, possibly pulling back only if the current recession unexpectedly continues through 2011 and Cohan can’t get the price he wants.

The sources did not give specific reasons for Cohan’s potential sell-off, and all of them noted that Cohan has spoiled soon-to-sell speculation several times in the past.

But one source pointed to Cohan’s long-running battle with the IRS and another theorized that Cohan has wearied of the criticism he receives for the team’s run of disappointment, which includes 1 playoff season and 14 seasons in which the team did not reach the postseason.

There are no immediately obvious candidates to purchase the Warriors, though there surely would be no shortage of interested parties.

via Warriors big picture: Is Cohan getting ready to sell? | Talking Points.