THE SIDELINES : Court Refuses Len Bias Lawsuit
The Supreme Court today refused to revive a lawsuit stemming from the cocaine-induced death of Len Bias in 1986.
The justices, without comment, let stand rulings that the suit should not go to trial or reach a jury.
Bias, an All-American player for Maryland, was selected by the Boston Celtics as the second pick overall in 1986 NBA draft. Two days later, Bias died as a result of cocaine intoxication.
James Bias sued his son’s agent and financial adviser, Advantage International Inc. and A. Lee Fentress, contending that they had failed to obtain, as promised, a $1-million life insurance policy for Bias. The suit also alleged that an endorsement contract with Reebok International Inc. providing for a lump-sum advance payment should have been signed the day before Bias’ death.
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