Stern Stands by Artest Ban

NBA Commissioner David Stern, after leaving the door open for Indiana Pacer forward Ron Artest’s return this season, ended that possibility.

“Our goal is to do everything we possibly can to ensure Ron’s return to the NBA next season is as smooth as it can possibly be,” Stern told The Indianapolis Star on Monday.

Stern suspended Artest for the rest of the season for his role in the Nov. 19 brawl with fans at Auburn Hills, Mich. Stern, however, acknowledged that he had considered shortening the suspension.

Pacer Chief Executive Donnie Walsh said that he wasn’t surprised by Stern’s decision, although he held out hope for reinstatement.

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Philadelphia 76er guard Allen Iverson was fined $10,000 by the NBA for a heated exchange with referee Marc Davis after Saturday’s loss to Chicago. ... Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu will miss the rest of the season after fracturing his left wrist in Monday’s loss at Charlotte, the team said.