YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN: NETS EYEING A RETURN TO LONG ISLAND

          The Nets, "reeling from the surprise announcement that
     the Devils want to move to Hoboken, are now seriously
     considering a move of their own -- to Long Island,"
     according to Jon Gelberg of the Newark STAR-LEDGER. 
     Officials of the Nassau County Sports Commission and the
     Palladium Co., a real estate investment company in the
     process of buying the Islanders, "confirmed their interest
     in bringing the Nets back to Long Island," where they played
     20 years ago.  Parties on both sides confirmed recent
     discussions that hinge on a new Uniondale arena.  Nets
     President Michael Rowe "refused to confirm or deny the
     report" (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 12/24).  On Long Island, Nassau
     County Exec Thomas Gulotta confirmed that the county has
     "ongoing but very informal discussions" with the Nets.  He
     added the county also has had talks with other pro teams,
     but would not identify any of them (NEWSDAY, 12/26).
          REFUSE TO LOSE: A NJ Superior Court judge "threw out a
     lawsuit" against Nets coach John Calipari by Newark Star-
     Ledger reporter Dan Garcia, who "accused Calipari of causing
     him emotional distress when Calipari cursed at him and
     threatened to punch him" last March, according to Elizabeth
     Moore of the Newark STAR-LEDGER.  Judge Joseph Scancarella
     said that Calipari's "remarks did not intentionally or
     negligently cause 'emotional distress' and that the coach
     did not follow through on his threats" (STAR-LEDGER, 12/25).

     Garcia said that "he does not plan to appeal" the suit, in
     which he was seeking $5M in damages (AP/STAR-LEDGER, 12/26).