51.   He will still run the basketball operation as well, leaning on general manager Jan Volk for front office help.

52.   He will have no dealings with the basketball operation.

53.   His continued presence as director of basketball operations can only impede the future success of the Celtics.

54.   His new base is on the third floor of the Merrimac Street office, far removed from basketball operations.

55.   However, he did say that based on the homework he has done, he feels there may need for more than one voice in the basketball operation.

56.   His status remains a question with the Nets having begun interviewing candidates for a director of basketball operations, including John Thompson, who was interviewed on Friday.

57.   Howard was a starter for the Wizards when Jordan was president of basketball operations for the club.

58.   If Jackson decides to return, Floyd, named director of basketball operations, will handle other duties.

59.   If Jordan eventually decides that Unseld has no place in basketball operations, Unseld will have to go somewhere else.

60.   Imagine Jordan, if you will, as part-owner and president of basketball operations of the Mavericks.