Though the storm of dissent regarding the NBA's new synthetic basketballs has calmed down, many players are still longing for the old leather one.  The NBA is unlikely to bring it back this season.

"Our plan is to play with this ball in the '06-07 season, subject to continual testing," said Stu Jackson. "We take the game very seriously, and we saw a chance to improve the game with a product that is better than the old ball. The feedback is something we welcome and have solicited. That's not an issue."

It appears that the only group thrilled about the change is PETA.

"For us, it's a really exciting victory," says PETA spokesman Dan Shannon. "It's another step forward in technology that has allowed us to replace an animal product with a synthetic.

"A lot of industries are going to more humane products."

"We'll get used to everything, I guess," says Dirk Nowitzki. "I don't know if it's going to affect shooting or turnovers. We'll have to see. We all know this league is about business, too. I think we're all professionals, and we'll get used to it."