Grantham resigns
NEW YORK - Charles Grantham has resigned as executive director of the NBA Players Association, he announced jointly with the union Friday, citing irreconcilable differences over internal matters.
He was replaced immediately by general counsel Simon Gourdine.
In a prepared statement, Grantham and union president Buck Williams said terms were amicable and neither will have "any further comment concerning the events giving rise to Mr. Grantham's resignation."
Grantham held the position since Sept. 19, 1988.
Payton breaks finger
SEATTLE - Seattle SuperSonics guard Gary Payton has a broken finger and his status for Saturday's game at Golden State is uncertain. Payton broke the ring finger on his left hand in Thursday night's home victory over Dallas, the team announced Friday.
Nuggets activate Ellis
DENVER - Forward LaPhonso Ellis, who hasn't played this season after undergoing knee surgery in November, was activated from the injured list by the Denver Nuggets on Friday. He had surgery to repair a stress fracture to the patella in his right knee, an injury he sustained Sept. 11.
To make room for the 6-foot-8 Ellis, the Nuggets put forward Mark Randall on the injured list with tendinitis in his ankle.
Clips to return to Pond?
LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Clippers, who played six regular-season games at the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim this season, hope to play eight next season along with two preseason games.
The Clippers said Friday they have submitted an application to the NBA Board of Governors making such a request. Official NBA Board of Governors approval is expected by April 26, the team said.
If all goes as planned, the Clippers will play 33 regular-season games at the Los Angeles Sports Arena next season.
Rodman rejoins Spurs
SAN ANTONIO - The San Antonio Spurs activated forward Dennis Rodman from the injured list Friday and waived guard Howard Eisley.
Rodman was placed on the injured list March 20 after he separated his right shoulder in a motorcycle accident in the Texas Hill Country the previous day. During his 14-game absence, the Spurs went 12-2.