The promoter was a go-between who received the money from Bill Duffy Associates, a sports agency which Mayo has since signed with. Mayo, who has declared himself eligible for next year's draft, denied any wrongdoing -- it is not clear what punishment could be levied by the NCAA.

"Second play of the game....my back just caught," Bryant said. "I couldn't go to the basket...I tried to be a decoy." Phil Jackson was upset after the game, because he felt Kobe's teammates "bailed out" during overtime, standing around and watching as Kobe handled the ball against constant double-teams.

"I was going for a blocked shot and, unfortunately, Ronnie Price is a guard and I am a big guy," Turiaf said. "It is very unfortunate the way everybody reacted to it because it was questioning my character." The Associated Press reported that Phil Jackson "gave Turiaf a lecture" on his way to the locker room, but after the game Jackson said the ejection was "absolutely not" the correct call.

Ben Wallace (dizziness, inner ear infection) is expected to play, but the Cavs need Varejao to provide some frontcourt energy off the bench. If Varejao and/or Wallace are limited, expect veteran Joe Smith to play a ton of minutes.

Paranoid Celtics fans can forget the conspiracy theories -- Wallace has been battling dizziness this series, so he skipped the loud pre-game introductions to avoid aggravating his condition. He emerged from the locker room in time for the opening tip-off.

Karl said that he might be able to attend the Finals (beginning the first week of June) if his son Coby, who is with the Lakers, is still playing. Karl will also be looking for a new assistant coach this summer -- Mike Dunlap is expected to leave and become the University of Arizona's associate head coach.

Tony Parker had 21 points, six boards and eight assists as the Spurs wrapped up the game by winning the second quarter 31-20 and the third quarter 30-19. The Spurs don't seem to be waiting to turn it on like the Pistons have been, but tonight's big win gives them some hope of stealing a game in New Orleans. David West finally cooled off, going 4-of-15 for 10 points and five boards, and will have to play better for the Hornets in Game 5.