Ron Artest is one of the few professional athletes who can relate to what Michael Vick is about to endure, and the former LaSalle Academy and St. John's star is conflicted about the suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback's future.

"I might get in trouble for this, but I want to call him," Artest said yesterday at The Palm Restaurant where he was promoting the Wheelchair Charities Hoop Game to be played Sept. 9 at the Garden.

"I want to support him and be there for him because [these are] tough times," continued Artest. "I don't support the dog fighting. I can't watch it. I can't imagine another dog biting a dog. It makes me nauseous."