News briefs: Pippen reportedly wins big in adviser lawsuit

At a time when they should be negotiating a new labor agreement, lawyers for the NBA and the players' union are about to fight a side battle -- an appeal of the lengthy suspensions given to Ron Artest, Stephen Jackson and Jermaine O'Neal -- that could exacerbate an already contentious relationship.

Just six years ago, the league and union went through a lengthy lockout that forced cancellation of nearly half of the 1998-99 season.

That was a low point, and nearly all the principle players from that battle -- starting with NBA commissioner David Stern and union director Billy Hunter and including most of the staff attorneys -- still hold the same jobs.

Inspired Jefferson helps 5-year-old girl in need

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Richard Jefferson hasn't forgotten the lessons taught by his missionary parents.

A couple of hours before a brawl between Indiana and Detroit gave the NBA a black eye last week, Jefferson quietly showed the charitable side of the league's players.

After reading about a 5-year-old girl with disabilities whose wheelchair had been destroyed during a school field trip, Jefferson offered to replace the vital chair, which could cost as much as $20,000.

"Everyday I look at it that we are blessed, not only to be doing what we are doing but just to be healthy," Jefferson said earlier this week. "Zo (kidney recipient and New Jersey Nets teammate Alonzo Mourning ) is a constant reminder of that, and that little girl is another reminder of that."

Cavs activate rookie Jackson

CLEVELAND -- Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luke Jackson was activated after missing five games because of tendinitis in his right knee. Cleveland also placed forward Sasha Pavlovic on the injured list.

Jackson, a rookie from from Oregon, has played in one game this season.

Pavlovic also has tendinitis in his right knee. He is averaging 3.6 points and 1.2 rebounds in nine games.