"I am saddened by the situation that created so much time and attention away from our athletes," Ward added.

Ward added 5 assists, 2 steals and 5 points in 21 minutes.

Ward added: "He's consistent and you can rely on him in any situation.

"This is a narrow race course and the key is staying out of trouble," Ward added.

While with Boston, Ward added solid defense and much-needed veteran leadership.

Johnson finished with 13 points and Ward added 12.

"A damned important dinner for me," Ward added, and his voice broke suddenly in the middle of the sentence.

Ward added: "They've got their futures and their careers to fight for.

"They had his blood on their hands," Ward added.

Ward added that he himself had lied to doctors to get back into games.