The NBA has suspended Denver forward Nene and Minnesota center Michael Olowonkandi four games each as a consequence for the two players fighting in the Timberwolves' 93-83 win in Denver Friday.

In a statement released by the NBA's Senior Vice President Basketball Operations Stu Jackson, it was revealed that the penalties were imposed against both players for 'throwing punches and fighting'.  The incident was the first act of voilence witnessed since November's brawl at The Palace in Detroit between the Pistons and the Pacers.

Olowokandi will begin serving his suspension tonight vs. the Portland Trail Blazers at the Target Center. Nen? will begin serving his suspension on Monday, Jan. 17 against the Golden State Warriors at The Arena in Oakland.

Also suspended as a result of the altercation were Nuggets Marcus Camby and Francisco Elson for one game each, even though neither were actively involved in the fight.  NBA rules state that no player can leave the vicinity of the bench during an altercation, which the league determined both had done.

Elson and Camby will serve their suspensions on Monday at Golden State.