Stars Want Out Of Nba Union Jordan, Ewing Lead Dissidents Protesting Contract Dealings

Some of the NBA’s biggest stars, including Michael Jordan and Patrick Ewing, are attempting to break with their union while the league and players association work on a new labor contract.

Responding to criticism from agents representing the most prominent players, the NBA Players Association said Monday it has kept its members abreast of negotiations but wants to keep quiet certain matters as talks approach a delicate stage.

Unappeased, these players began an effort to dissociate themselves.

On Monday, Jordan and Scottie Pippen of Chicago, Ewing of New York, Charlotte’s Alonzo Mourning, Orlando’s Horace Grant and Atlanta’s Stacey Augmon signed notices saying they no longer wish to be represented by the union.

“The union leadership is an island unto themselves,” said Arn Tellem, on a 15-member committee of agents set up to advise the union on labor talks. “As a result, the players now are furious. They have no clue as to what’s being negotiated.”

Tellem said his client, Indiana’s Reggie Miller, will be signing in the coming days.

“The list is large and growing at a rapid pace,” Tellem said.

Simon Gourdine, the union’s executive director, could not be reached for comment about these latest moves. Earlier in the day, he said there were valid reasons for not keeping the players apprised of certain aspects of the talks.

“The problem the agents advisory committee has had is they expect us to give interim reports on tentative agreements,” Gourdine said. “Our view is that’s premature. It’s a delicate balance, and we have to reach the point where we have something to report.”

The NBA and the union reported progress toward a new labor deal was being made, but both sides postponed until Friday previously scheduled meetings to vote on an agreement to replace the one that expired in June 1994.