Wilson's contract to provide the official ball runs to 2003.

It was one of 14 official balls around town tonight for more than 70,000 people, including President Clinton.

There are nine official balls, compared with 14 for President Clinton's second inaugural, four years ago.

Only 5 persons are allowed to move freely in the court with the official ball.

"We are not an official ball, and we don't want to be."

However, the official ball became much faster in the latter part of Brumfield's career, and this did not suit his game style.

The league's contract with Wilson, which has been making the official ball for decades, is up after this season.

"He promised that if we used his official ball he'd come watch."

An official ball is still in development; for now, it's a slightly deflated volleyball.

During the game, the official balls from both leagues were used.