Associated Press
The NFL told club executives they could be schooled in the ins and outs of the new labor contract as early as Thursday, and the playersí association summoned its leadership for a potential vote ó the strongest signs yet the lockout might be nearing an end.
Lawyers for both sides met 81/2 hours in New York, including 31/2 with a court-appointed mediator, to try to close a deal to resolve the sportís first work stoppage since 1987. Talks were scheduled to continue Tuesday.
ěMaking progress,î said NFL Players Association outside counsel Jeffrey Kessler, who also represents locked-out NBA players. Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA head DeMaurice Smith spoke to each other on the telephone and planned to stay in regular contact.
MCMAHON INJURED
RENO, Nev. ó Former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon and two others were injured when a limousine crashed through a fence south of Reno, the Nevada Highway Patrol said.
The limo, owned by Bell Limousine of Reno, was heading north when it left the four-lane highway, crashed through a wire fence, over a culvert and into a pasture. Trooper Mike Edgell said alcohol wasnít involved and the cause of the accident was under investigation.
NBA
NEW YORK ó Staff members from the NBA and playersí association will meet Friday, the first session related to collective bargaining since the lockout began July 1.
The meeting wonít include Commissioner David Stern, union executive director Billy Hunter, or players or owners, according to a person with knowledge of the discussions. No new proposals are expected, says the person, who was granted anonymity because the meeting isnít being publicized.
NHL
DETROIT ó After more than 400 wins and three Stanley Cups, Chris Osgood figures he has nothing left to prove.
The occasionally-maligned goaltender who eventually earned the admiration of Detroitís passionate fans announced his retirement Tuesday, ending a career in which he helped the Red Wings to two championships as a starter and another as a backup.
CYCLING
NEW YORK ó Lance Armstrongís attorneys say illegal government leaks of grand jury information have sullied the cyclistís reputation, and have asked a court to order federal agents to discuss their contacts with the media.