SEATTLE -- Gary Payton is sorry for his behavior that caused
a one-game suspension and talks of a possible trade.
"I want to apologize to my teammates and to the fans of
Seattle," Payton said Saturday in a statement.
Payton said he met individually with coach Nate McMillian, team
President and General Manager Wally Walker and Starbucks Chairman
Howard Schultz, who headed a group of investors that bought the
Sonics for $200 million on Jan. 11.
"We had very productive discussions, and have agreed to put
this behind us and move forward," Payton said.
He was expected play against Sacramento here Sunday night.
Payton, who has worn the Sonics' jersey for more than 11 years,
said he has always been proud to be part of the team.
"Our commitment from this point forward is to continue to win
games and prepare for the playoffs," he said.
Payton and McMillan got into a shouting match in the locker room
after the Sonics' 89-90 home loss to Phoenix on Wednesday. McMillan
suspended Payton the next day for actions that were "detrimental
to the team."
Walker said Thursday that trading Payton had become a
possibility.
Payton's absence was felt as the Sonics lost 98-93 to the
Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.
Earlier this season, Payton was suspended for a game after a
confrontation with then-coach Paul Westphal on Nov. 21 at Dallas.
Payton had to be separated from Westphal on the court and later
criticized him to reporters. Westphal was fired six days later and
was replaced by McMillan, then-assistant coach and former Sonic.
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