NBA - Gambling ban for Grizzlies following fracas

MEMPHIS (NBA) - Memphis Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins has banned gambling on all team flights after an altercation between two players in the team.

Teammates had to intervene and separate the players before a fight could break out.

According to media reports, one player owed the other some money and took exception to be asked to settle the debt.

"We're in a confined airplane, and things get heated. I'm done with it. No more gambling," Hollins said to the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

"I told my guys if they read a book, that would be good. They have to entertain themselves in a different manner."

The skirmish followed the Grizzlies' biggest win of the season, a blowout win against the Lakers in Los Angeles.

Several NBA teams banned gambling on flights last season after a disagreement over a card game debt between Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton, who were Washington Wizards players at the time, led to an incident in which both men brandished guns in the team's locker room.

Spurs fall again

The San Antonio Spurs have the best record in the NBA but they suffered a second straight defeat on Wednesday night.

The architect of their demise was Rajon Rondo, who had a triple-double in the Boston Celtics' 105-103 triumph.

Rondo had 22 assists to go with his 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Ray Allen poured in a game-high 31 points and 'Big Baby' Glen Davis added 23 as Boston improved to 27-7 overall and 15-2 at home.

The Spurs (29-6) had fallen to the Knicks on Tuesday in New York.

The Chicago Bulls have been on a tear but they slumped to a 96-94 defeat at New Jersey (10-5), who got 20 points and 11 boards from Kris Humphries.

Atlanta (24-14) won at Utah (24-12) after a 26-point performance from Jamal Crawford.

Joe Johnson also tore apart the Jazz with 25 points, which included a five-of-seven night from behind the arc.

Portland hit the road and won 103-100 over Houston, who lost despite a 45-point night from Kevin Martin.

Future Team USA star LaMarcus Aldridge dominated for Portland, scoring 27 points and grabbing 13 boards.

Other results: Toronto 120 Cleveland 105, Milwaukee 87 Orlando 97, Washington 97 Philadelphia 109, Golden State 110 New Orleans 103, Charlotte 108 Minnesota 105, Denver 93 LA Clippers 106, LA Lakers 99 Phoenix 95.

FIBA