NBA Commissioner David Stern, on finding ways to
address conduct-related problems among NBA personnel: "There
is nothing special we are going to do. We are going to
continue our programs that we have in place and continue
our dialogue with the [NBPA] as to what standards of conduct
are reasonable." Noting the recent legal troubles of Marv
Albert and Hornets Owner George Shinn, Stern added, "We're
not about any kind of witch hunt. But illegal actions or
criminal actions which result in convictions are things we
have to be ready to deal with for all people, not just
players. We're prepared to deal with all of it" (Eddie
Sefko, HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 9/20). More Stern: "This involves
a very, very, very small percentage of our players, and on
one hand concerns us greatly. But on the other hand, causes
us to make sure we don't contribute to the stereotyping that
historically has gone on" (SACRAMENTO BEE, 9/21). In
Boston, Peter May: "It was refreshing to hear Stern confront
the issue of moral turpitude and not limit it to players."
May also noted that NBA GMs "were presented with a rough
draft proposal about the CBA becoming more of a development/
farm league for the NBA" (BOSTON GLOBE, 9/21).
NOTES: Stern said TV revenue will be limited to network
and cable deals, with no plans to offer games on pay-per-
view (SACRAMENTO BEE, 9/21)....In Ft. Lauderdale, Ira
Winderman wrote the league put together a presentation of
"questionable music that included a tape of" the Rocky
theme, "Gonna Fly Now," aired during the Heat-Knicks playoff
"brawl." The Heat "was chastised for the musical selection
and possible incendiary ramifications" (SUN-SENTINEL,
9/20)....The Competition Committee discussed rule changes
for this season, including moving the three-point line back
to 23 feet, 9 inches (ORLANDO SENTINEL, 9/22).
