Basketball

Arbitrator Daniel G. Collins, a New York University law professor, heard seven hours of testimony at a hearing in New York to determine whether New York Knick center Patrick Ewing should be a free agent.

At issue is whether Ewing was among the top four highest-paid players in the NBA. His 10-year contract, signed in 1985, stipulates that he can become a restricted free agent after his sixth season if he is not among the top four highest-salaried players on June 1, 1991.

Both sides in the dispute agree that Ewing’s $3.18-million salary for 1991-92 trails John (Hot Rod) Williams at $4 million, Hakeem Olajuwon ($3.5 million) and Michael Jordan ($3.25 million). However, David Falk, Ewing’s agent, contends that other players also will be paid more than Ewing, but the Knicks have maintained that Ewing is fourth.

A decision is expected next week.