Crittenton will not appeal suspension

Washington Wizards player Javaris Crittenton, who was slapped with a season-long ban by the NBA's disciplinary officials, has decided not to appeal the lengthy suspension.

Crittenton and teammate Gilbert Arenas were suspended without pay for the rest of the season by commissioner David Stern last week for a gun incident in the Washington dressing room.

"After consulting with his representatives and the NBPA, Javaris has informed me that he does not intend to challenge the suspension that Commissioner Stern imposed last week," William Hunter, executive director of the National Basketball Players Association said.

"Javaris has said that he believes far more good will be done by moving forward and focusing on the future. We respect his decision and accordingly no grievance will be filed on his behalf.

"Javaris has reiterated to me his deep personal regret and I have no doubt that he will continue to make positive contributions as a respected member of our union and the NBA community." Arenas had earlier told Stern that he would not appeal the suspension.

Crittenton was sentenced by a US court to a year of probation after pleading guilty to a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm.

The second charge of attempting to carry a handgun without a licence was dropped. WASHINGTON, Wednesday AFP