Rafer Alston decided to follow the lead of former Cubs' right fielder Sammy Sosa and leave the arena during the 4th quarter of the Raptors' 104-91 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Alston left Gund Arena during the fourth quarter Tuesday night after coach Sam Mitchell benched him with 3:46 remaining in the first quarter.

"It's like one big soap opera," Raptors forward Morris Peterson said.

Mitchell, who suspended Alston for two games for storming out of a practice late last month.

"It's a basketball thing that Rafer and I have to sort out," said the first-year coach. "Rafer is determined in his way and I'm determined in my way.

"He is struggling with some basketball things and I wasn't planning on playing him in the second half. I expect him to play tomorrow and expect him to be a starter."