NBA, NBPA FINALLY SIGN NEW COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT

     The NBA announced yesterday that a new CBA extending through
the 2000-2001 season has been signed with the NBPA, clearing the
way for player transactions and negotiations to begin.  NBA Exec
VP Jeffrey Mishkin: "The process has been a difficult one, but I
think we now have an agreement that will provide a constructive
framework for the long-term relationship between the NBA and its
players" (NBA).
     NYC GETS ALL-STAR GAME: New York City beat out Philadelphia
and Portland to host the '98 NBA All-Star Game, according to Jon
Marks of the Trenton TIMES.  76ers President Pat Croce said he
was informed "last week" New York would host the game.  This will
be the first time the game has been in New York since '68
(Trenton TIMES, 7/11).