The NBA has handed down its severe punishment. I think Artest's suspension is too harsh relative to the other players'.

But worse: the overall sanctions imposed on the two franchises are vastly unequal. The Pacers are decimated, while Detroit walks away virtually unscathed.

Over at the Volokh Conspiracy, Juan says Stern is a coward.

Stern announced no measures -- indeed, could not even bring himself to directly condemn the actions of the fans -- addressed at the misbehavior of the guilty fans. No penalties were assessed on the Detroit Pistons organization for insufficient security; season-ticket holders who assaulted players did not have their tickets revoked, nor were any such measures recommended by the Commissioner in his statement. All David Stern offered was empty platitudes about how the league must "redefine the bounds of acceptable conduct" for fans and players alike.

I think that's about right.

What makes it worse is that, in true schoolyard fashion, the Pistons continue to place all the blame on the other side. Here's what Palace CEO Tom Wilson said yesterday: "I'm not even sure we need extra security, but we wanted the visual image for people at home..."

Yeah, I guess there's no need for extra security after hundreds of your fans instigate one of the worst incidents of violence in American sports history.

If you want to read more reaction as the day goes on, stay tuned to Off Wing. Also tune into PTI this afternoon.