Ex-referee makes new accusations

Disgraced referee Tim Donaghy told investigators in the NBA betting probe that relationships among officials, coaches and players “affected the outcome of games,” his attorney said. The league said the charges were unfounded.

Donaghy’s attorney made the assertions in a letter filed in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn on Monday, in which he argued that his client should be sentenced to probation because he fully cooperated with prosecutors and has been undergoing treatment for his gambling.

John F. Lauro also suggested that Donaghy told investigators about the gambling activities of other NBA officials and about a referee that passed “confidential” information to an unidentified coach.

The U.S. attorney’s office said it has no comment.

NBA Commissioner David Stern dismissed the comments

“It seems that in an effort to cushion whatever sentence is coming, Mr. Donaghy’s lawyer has taken on the U.S. Attorney’s office, the FBI and the NBA,” Stern said.

Donaghy pleaded guilty last year to felony charges for taking cash payoffs from gamblers and betting on games he officiated.

Donaghy faces up to 25 years at his sentencing July 14.

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Denver Nuggets Coach George Karl underwent left hip replacement surgery, the team said.

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Playoff television ratings are up over last season.

The 36 games on TNT have averaged a 2.4 rating, up 14% from last year.

Ratings are up 27% on ESPN, averaging a 2.8 over 16 games. Nine ABC games have averaged a 3.7, a 28% increase.