Suspect charged with assault in NBA player's stabbing

NEW YORK (AP) A 22-year-old man has been charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon in the stabbing of Indianapolis Pacers player Chris Copeland outside a New York City nightclub.

Shevoy Bleary was arraigned Thursday in Manhattan criminal court. His lawyer had no immediate comment on the charges.

Authorities say Bleary was outside the 1Oak Club early Wednesday when he overheard Copeland and a girlfriend arguing and got involved. They say he stabbed Copeland in the stomach and the woman in the breast and backside. A woman with Bleary also was slashed.

Prosecutors say Bleary had a switchblade and gave it to the police officers who responded to the violence.

The Pacers say Copeland is in stable condition following surgery on his abdomen and elbow.