Owners Choose Bargaining Route

The National Basketball Association Board of Governors voted Monday to reopen the league’s collective bargaining agreement with players, risking a battle with the union that could result in a lockout or strike after the season.

Owners voted 27-2 in Dallas to reopen the agreement, which they blame for nine-figure contracts and the uncontrollable movement of young players. A simple majority - 15 of 29 teams - was needed to reopen. NBA commissioner David Stern wouldn’t say who voted against reopening.

“We need a better system,” Stern said. “I guess what we’re seeing now is a system where salaries continue to rise, teams become unprofitable and ticket prices continue to rise.”

The current agreement remains in effect until July 1. The league and the National Basketball Players Association, which also has criticized the accord, will begin negotiations next week, Stern said.

On the courts

Scottie Pippen scored 27 points, including 14 on soaring, forceful dunks, as the Chicago Bulls defeated the visiting Boston Celtics 111-88 Monday night for their sixth straight win.

Eddie Jones scored 27 points as the Los Angeles Lakers completed a four-game season sweep of the Denver Nuggets with a 107-86 victory at Denver.