In Business This Week

DUNKING A BASKETBALL STRIKE

WHILE BASEBALL ENDURES A summer of fan discontent, the National Basketball Assn. appears to have averted a similar fate. On Sept. 12, players voted against decertifying their union, an action proposed by such dissident stars as Patrick Ewing and Michael Jordan. Union reps the next day ratified a plan that would limit total player salaries to 48% of league-wide revenues, vs. 53% under previous pacts. Owners are almost certain to approve such favorable terms quickly. That would end the current lockout of players, allowing the NBA season to begin as scheduled on Nov. 3.EDITED BY KEITH H. HAMMONDS