News / Sports
NBA Sued by Players’ Association
The NBA Players’ Association has filed suit against the NBA for what it has called unfair labor practices. The two charges filed stem from the NBA’s move to a microfiber composite ball and the leagues rigid stance on player complaints.
The union has expressed its displeasure with NBA’s decision to implement the changes without first consulting with the players.
The new ball has had several critics amongst the players forced to handle it. Shaquile O’Neal had said before the season started that whoever was responsible for the new ball should be fired.
As for the “zero-tolerance policy” concerning complaints after the whistle, the NBA has threatened to hit the players in the pocket. With each technical foul issued a player must pay a fine, something none of the players are to eager to accept.
Union director Billy Hunter commented about the concerns of the players, “There is virtual unanimity amongst the players about their concerns and intense dislike for the new synthetic ball and the 'zero tolerance' policy.”
Without having had a voice in the changes made, the Players’ Association felt this to be the right action to take.
NBA spokesman Brian McIntyre has said that the league is “reviewing what they have filed.”
