Basketball: Marks' future still up in air

By PETER JESSUP

Sean Marks' basketball future rolls around the hoop, with his trade to the Boston Celtics called off because team-mate Alvin Williams failed the required medical examination.

Told to clear out his locker by the Toronto Raptors last week, Marks was yesterday ordered to be back at training today as the team prepare for the resumption of round-play after the All Star weekend and he expects to be part of the squad to host the New York Knicks on Thursday.

The Celtics still want Marks, but his problem is now twofold with the trade deadline looming and the Raptors likely to increase his asking price, given the clear interest from Boston.

He was to have moved south as part of a three-player deal, with the Celtics passing on forward Danny Fortson for guards Marks and Williams. But Boston have opted out, invoking a clause requiring the players to pass fitness tests and citing Williams' ongoing knee problems.

Williams had arthroscopic surgery two years ago after joining the Raptors from Portland, and while his right knee has bothered him occasionally, it has not kept him off court and he had 102 games, 76 starts and an average of 5.3 points.

Raptors general manager Glen Grunwald said: "Both Alvin and Sean are good players and individuals of great character. It was a difficult decision to trade them in the first place and we're happy to have them back with the club."

Marks has been assured the Celtics will pursue his case with Toronto and is hoping a deal can still be finalised before the player-trade deadline at the end of next week.