By CLIFF BRUNTAssociated Press Writer INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Ron Artest came to the Indiana Pacers’ rookie/free agent camp Monday pledging to be a smarter player so his team can win an NBA championship. The star forward spoke to the Indianapolis media for the first time since a November 19 fight in Detroit that resulted in a nearly season-long suspension. Artest went into the stands and attacked a fan after he was hit with a cup of beer. Artest said he wants to cut down on technical fouls and remain in control to help the team. He called his tendency to draw technicals “playing against your team.” “Probably next year, you’ll see an older guy, an older player,” Artest said, describing himself. Artest, a former All-Star and NBA Defensive Player of the Year, was having his best statistical season before the suspension. Artest said it was his decision to join the team for the camp and for the Minnesota Summer League starting Friday. Artest said he was proud of the way the team played in his absence. The Pacers finished 44-38 and reached the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. “We were a top-eight team,” he said. “We finished in the top eight after all that happened to us. The Pacers showed a lot of heart.” Artest also said he was looking forward to returning to Detroit for his first game there since the brawl. “It’s going to be a lot of excitement,” he said. “Sometimes, you go to away games and you’ve got to find a way to get your energy up. I’m sure my energy will be up.”
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