Following through on their disclaimer of interest, eight NBA players representing themselves and 400 of their colleagues, filed anti-trust suits in Minnesota and California Tuesday.
The plaintiffs argue that the lockout "constitutes an illegal group boycott, price-fixing agreement, and/or restraint of trade in violation of the Sherman Act" and that the owners' final offer for a new CBA would have "wiped out the competitive market for most NBA players."
David Boies, an attorney for the players, said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon the lawsuit was an attempt to restore competitive free-market conditions. "We hope it's not necessary to go to trial," he said. Said NBA spokesman Tim Frank, "We haven't seen Mr. Boies complaint yet but it's a shame that the players have chosen to litigate instead of negotiate.
- Players file antitrust complaint against league - AP
- Players file antitrust suits against NBA - Alan Hahn - New York Newsday
- Players sue NBA for antitrust violations - Ken Berger - CBS Sports
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New lawyer for NBA players outlines strategy - Chris Sheridan - Sheridan Hoops