West will step down with Grizzlies

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Jerry West will leave as the Memphis Grizzlies' director of basketball operations July 1, ending a five-year stint with the former expansion franchise.

West, one of the NBA's great players and executives with the Los Angeles Lakers, disclosed his plans Tuesday during an end-of-season meeting with reporters. The 68-year-old West had been under contract only through this season.

The Grizzlies (21-60) have the worst record in the league and their troubles on the court have been compounded by the possible sale of the club.

NBA suspends referee

NEW YORK -- Joey Crawford is done ejecting players and coaches this season. On Tuesday, he was the one getting tossed.

The veteran NBA referee was suspended indefinitely by commissioner David Stern for his conduct toward Tim Duncan, who contends the official challenged him to a fight during a game in Dallas.

Crawford has worked more postseason games than any active ref. His suspension will last at least through the NBA finals, and he apparently will have to meet with Stern after that to discuss reinstatement.

-- AP