Sprewell Hit With Fine by Knicks

<br>NEW YORK (AP) _ Latrell Sprewell was fined $125,000 by the New York Knicks for missing a shootaround before a game with the Miami Heat, it was reported Tuesday. <br><br>The fine represents one-ninetieth

Tuesday, April 16th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

NEW YORK (AP) _ Latrell Sprewell was fined $125,000 by the New York Knicks for missing a shootaround before a game with the Miami Heat, it was reported Tuesday.

The fine represents one-ninetieth of his $11.25 million salary. Sprewell has said he deserved to be fined but he thinks the amount is excessive.

Sprewell has spoken with the players' association, which has 20 days to file an appeal, New York newspapers reported.

``I can accept a certain fine but taking one-ninetieth is a little too much,'' he said.

The Knicks termed his offense as ``conduct detrimental to the team.''

The star guard was suspended for Sunday night's game and was with the team but not in uniform for New York's 94-67 victory. Sprewell had started every game this season.

Sprewell said he missed the morning shootaround because he overslept and ``there's no excuse for not calling.''

The Knicks play Tuesday night in Washington and end their season Wednesday against New Jersey.