At first light, the NBA officially released a statement announcing its decision on Sprewell: a $100,000 fine, no suspension, and eligibility to play in Game 7 of the Finals.
The statement also noted that the league had taken notice of Lakers fans' malicious harassment and would work with the police and the Lakers organization to strengthen oversight and prevent such incidents from happening again.
As soon as the statement was released, it spread through major American news outlets. NBC, ABC, the New York Sports Daily, the Los Angeles Angel Daily, and others all reported on it immediately.
On NBC's morning sports program, the host broke the news first, his tone excited. "The NBA has officially announced its disciplinary decision. Sprewell has been fined $100,000 for giving the middle finger, but he will not be suspended and will take part in Game 7 two days from now!"
"The league stated that, taking into account the full context of the incident and the appeal of Game 7, it decided not to suspend Sprewell. At the same time, it warned Lakers fans against any further malicious harassment."
ABC invited a basketball commentator to interpret the ruling. "This is a decision that balances rules and interests. The $100,000 fine is the league's maximum penalty and demonstrates its respect for the rules."
"Not suspending him ensures the quality of Game 7 while also taking into account the feelings of Knicks fans and Chinese fans, preventing the league from falling into an even greater public relations crisis."
The New York Sports Daily ran a striking headline: <League Officially Announces: Madman Fined $100,000, Set to Play in Game 7!>
The article wrote: "Sprewell's impulsive behavior received the punishment it deserved, but the league also considered the unusual circumstances of the incident and chose not to suspend him,