INDIANAPOLIS, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Indianapolis Pacers star Ron Artest says he's sorry for his part in a brawl during a game against Detroit but doesn't think he was treated fairly by the NBA.
Artest, an all-star forward, was suspended for the remainder of the season by NBA Commissioner David Stern. It is the longest non-drug suspension in the league's history.
Eight other players also drew suspensions -- ranging from one to 30 games -- for their actions during the fight, which involved fans, Friday night at the Palace in Auburn Hills, Mich. Nine people were treated for minor injuries.
A statement from Artest said, "It really hurt me to see the children crying on TV, and I think about how it could have been my own kids. I also regret and apologize to fans who were upset by what happened," the Indianapolis Star reported Monday.
The 25-year-old Artest said he respected Stern "but I don't think that he has been fair with me in this situation."
Stern said the suspensions are without pay. Artest will lose nearly $5.3 million in salary.
Billy Hunter, director of the NBA players' union, said the suspensions were excessive and would be challenged.
