Artest back in the lineup; watches Iverson hit game-winner

Philadelphia, PA (Basketball News) - Indiana Pacers forward Ron Artest was back in the lineup for Friday’s 106-104 overtime loss to Philadelphia at the Wachovia Center.

Artest was benched for the previous two games after he asked for time off to deal with exhaustion and off-court issues, including the promotion of an album that is slated to be released later this month.

The 6-foot-7 Artest, who has been bothered by nagging injuries since training camp, was not suspended and did not lose any of his salary. He was benched for what Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle termed "compromising the integrity of the team."

However, following Friday’s shootaround, Carlisle cleared Artest to return to action and he posted 29 points, six rebounds and five assists in the defeat.

However, the effort of Artest was overshadowed by Allen Iverson, who struggled all night, but made the first walk-off, game-winning shot of his career on the final play of overtime. Iverson finished with 15 points and nine assists, but only shot 5-of-23 from the field.

"It’s a great feeling to hit a shot with no time on the clock," said Iverson.