The NBPA will “conduct a vote during All-Star Weekend to determine the fate” of suspended Exec Dir Billy Hunter, and there is “a perception" that NBPA President Derek Fisher wants to take over Hunter's position, according to Gary Washburn of the BOSTON GLOBE. However, Fisher last Tuesday wrote on his Twitter feed, "Heard rumors I'm angling for Executive Director. There are people out there better suited for that role than me. No thanks. Not interested." Meanwhile, sources said that some “key members of the executive committee -- those who were allies of Hunter -- were left out of the process to place him on administrative leave.” Washburn wrote, “Regardless of who wins the tussle between Fisher and Hunter, there will be major changes with the Players Association, and it appears many current players are ready for a new leader. But Hunter has many supporters, as well” (BOSTON GLOBE, 2/10). In Charlotte, Rick Bonnell wrote, "It seems likely Billy Hunter will be out soon.” Hunter “thrived on needless conflict” and was “in constant search for the next fight.” He seemed to “consolidate power within the union by demonizing the owners.” Bonnell: “I’ve long questioned whether the players association does what’s best for the majority of its members” (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 2/10).
