Ron Artest declared his intention to play for the British Basketball League's Cheshire Jets.

"I'm definitely going to play for the Jets," Artest said in a phone interview Thursday night. "I'm definitely going to play for the Jets."

His agent, David Bauman, wanted to seek insurance for Artest in case he was injured. But with the league and players union appearing to make little progress on a collective bargaining agreement, Artest said he asked himself one question: "I thought, 'Where can I go to play ball and enjoy myself' "

Artest said he will make between $1,500 to $2,500 a month playing for the Jets, although that's not definitive since the deal isn't finalized.

The team will attempt to secure music gigs and television roles, possibly even a British soap opera.