NBA -- Magic Johnson Joins Globetrotters For Day

PHOENIX - Retired superstar Magic Johnson will play for the Harlem Globetrotters in a game against a team of college all-stars on April 19.

The 11-time NBA all-star will join the Globetrotters for game at Phoenix's America West Arena, which will be played without the team's usual assortment of routines and gimmicks.

The game is part of the Nike Desert Classic, a showcase for college players who are eligible for this year's NBA draft.

Johnson, 37, led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA titles and nine trips to the NBA Finals in his 13-year career. He was a member of the original Dream Team that won the basketball gold medal for the U.S. at the 1992 Summer Olympics.

He retired from the Lakers in 1991 after testing positive for the HIV virus that causes AIDS, although he has come back to play several times. He played 32 games in 1995-96, averaging 14.6 points and 6.9 assists. Johnson also coached the Lakers to a 5-11 record at the end of the 1993-94 season.

Among the college seniors who have committed to the Desert Classic are Providence's Austin Croshere, Tulsa's Shea Seals, North Carolina's Serge Zwikker and Kansas' Scot Pollard, Jacque Vaughn and Jerod Haase, the Globetrotters said.

Spurs' Smith a no-show

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - San Antonio forward Charles Smith failed to show up at Arco Arena for a game against the Sacramento Kings.

Team spokesman Tom James said Smith did not take the team flight to Sacramento after a loss Thursday at Phoenix. As of game time last night, the Spurs had not been in contact with the veteran.

Smith has seen limited action this season. He played in the team's first four games, then missed the next 59 due to osteoarthritis in his right knee.

Notes

-- Tony Smith of the Charlotte Hornets has been charged with fourth-degree sexual assault and disorderly conduct, both misdemeanors, on accusations he fondled a woman at a bar.

-- Washington Bullet forward Chris Webber agreed to a multiyear endorsement contract with Fila that will include shoes and apparel. Financial terms weren't disclosed.