Patrick Ewing`s contract was the subject of seven hours of testimony Monday at an arbitration hearing that could determine the future of the New York Knicks` All-Star center.
Arbitrator Daniel Collins, a New York University law professor, is expected to announce a decision on Ewing`s free agency next week.
Ewing attended the hearing along with his agent, David Falk, while the NBA Players Association was represented by executive director Charles Grantham. Knicks President David Checketts represented the team, and the league was represented by general counsel Gary Bettman.
At issue is whether Ewing was among the top four highest-paid players in the NBA. His 10-year contract stipulates that he can become a restricted free agent following his sixth season if he is not among the top four highest-salaried players on June 1, 1991.
Both sides in the dispute agree Ewing`s $3.18 million salary for 1991-92 trails John ”Hot Rod” Williams at $4 million, Hakeem Olajuwon ($3.5 million) and Michael Jordan ($3.25 million).
Falk has said other players also will be paid more than Ewing, but the Knicks have maintained that Ewing is fourth.
