Bakersfield protest granted

NEW YORK – The NBA Development League today granted a game protest filed by the Bakersfield Jam over its game with the Reno Bighorns on February 16, declaring the game a forfeit in favor of Bakersfield.

The issue in dispute was the Bighorns’ use in the game of an ineligible player, Duje Dukan, who was on assignment from the Sacramento Kings.  Under the collective bargaining agreement, NBA players were not permitted to play in NBA D-League games from February 11 through February 16, during the league’s All-Star break.  Dukan recorded 22 points, two rebounds, and one assist in the Bighorns’ 130-126 win over the Jam.

With the forfeit, the Jam’s season record improves to 18-21, while Reno’s record falls to 25-14.