New York, NY – Renewed confidence that the NBA lockout was nearing an end turned out to be bullish optimism as the third straight day of talks broke off Friday without a deal.
The news was even worse than that, as the NBA canceled the remaining games in November and lost any hope of having a full 82-game schedule.
NBA commissioner David Stern said it wasn't "practical, possible or prudent to have a full season."
"In light of the breakdown of talks, there will not be a full season under any circumstances," Stern said.
Despite 22 hours of meetings over the previous two days and positive comments Thursday that indicated the sides were closer -- including one from union head Billy Hunter that they were "within striking distance" of a deal -- Day 120 of the lockout ended the same way it started.
Basketball-related income remained a sticking point between the league and players, who were still unable to agree on a split.
