NBA Cancels First Two Weeks of Season

NBA Commissioner David Stern canceled the first two weeks of the season Monday after owners and players were unable to reach a new labor deal and end the lockout.

"The gap is so significant that we just can't bridge it at this time," said Stern, who added it's doubtful a full 82-game season can be played.

It's disappointing news for Chicago Bulls fans whose team is coming off a resurgent season led by league MVP Derrick Rose and a run to the Eastern Conference championship series.

The Bulls were scheduled to kick off the season against the NBA champion Dallas Mavericks, and will miss home games against the Atlanta Hawks, LA Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder and Sacramento Kings.

Top negotiators for both sides met for more than seven hours Monday, returning to bargaining about 14 hours after ending talks Sunday night. The two sides expect to remain in contact, but no additional formal talks have been scheduled.

Stern said both sides are "very far apart on virtually all issues. ... We just have a gulf that separates us."

Opening night was scheduled for Nov. 1, and the cancellation includes all games scheduled to be played through Nov. 14.