News from December 31.

The NBA named Michael Jordan (Chi) as Player of the Month for December.
Jordan averaged 28.4 points and 6.9 rebounds as Chicago went 11-3 in
December.

The NBA named Tim Duncan (SA) as Rookie of the Month for December.  Duncan
averaged 19.3 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks as San Antonio went
9-4 in December.

The NBA named George Karl (Sea) as Coach of the Month for December.
Seattle went 11-3 in December.

Dallas and Don Nelson have reached an agreement on a 2 year coaching
contract, under which Nelson will coach through the 1999-2000 season.
Nelson is currently coaching under his 5 year, $7.2 million GM contract.
The 2 year coaching contract is worth about $6 million, which Nelson will
receive in addition to his GM salary.


Was 118, Tor 91 - at Was
Chris Webber (Was) had 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
Calbert Cheaney (Was) had 21 points including 9-12 FG.
Rod Strickland (Was) had 17 points including 6-7 FG, 12 assists, and 3
steals.
Tracy Murray (Was) had 22 points on 9-13 FG and 4-5 3-pointers and 5
turnovers.
Doug Christie (Tor) had 18 points.
Damon Stoudamire (Tor) had 19 points including 7-20 FG, 5 rebounds, and 7
assists.
Was shot 59.7% (46-77) FG and Tor shot 43.4% (36-83) FG.
Walt Williams (Tor, hyperextended left knee) and Marcus Camby (Tor,
strained abdominal muscle) did not play.