Jazz president applauds decision to nix Paul trade

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Jazz President Randy Rigby applauded the NBA's decision to nix a trade that would have sent New Orleans' star guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rigby said owners had no say in the move. But as a small-market team, Rigby said it is important to keep players in an organization long term after so much effort and time are spent developing them.

He cited the success the Jazz had with John Stockton and Karl Malone. He said both players committed to a community and that community committed back, and the result was great success.

Rigby unveiled a third alternate jersey Friday before more than 600 fans who had lined up outside the downtown Salt Lake City arena. Some took a day off work.