But this could have big implications for the wireless market. Clearwire currently leases space on its network to other wireless providers. Would the company continue doing that under SoftBank ownership, or would it dedicate all its resources to expanding Sprint's footprint?
Or would SoftBank seek to acquire companies that now rely on Clearwire? One possible target: Leap Wireless International, which this year signed a five-year deal with Clearwire for high-speed mobile broadband service.
Leap operates the Cricket brand, which, like MetroPCS, focuses on being a low-cost alternative to the big four.
Federal regulators have signaled that they're comfortable with a wireless market composed primarily of four big players. So it's unlikely that a SoftBank-controlled Sprint would raise too many alarm bells with subsequent acquisitions.
The real question would be if Sprint made a grab for T-Mobile. Such a merger would give the company about as many wireless customers as either Verizon or AT&T. It would also mean that just three carriers would control almost the entire market.
"I don't think the Department of Justice would like that," said Kelsey at Free Press.
No, it wouldn't. But it also wouldn't like Sprint or T-Mobile (or both) exiting the market because they couldn't secure enough spectrum to hold their own against Verizon and AT&T. Three big players might be seen as preferable to just two.
Is that the road we're on? Could be. Give it a year or two.
Or 300.
David Lazarus' column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. he also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com.
