Nets' Jefferson charged with assault

MINNESOTA Jefferson was in town with team on Jan. 27 when, according to a charge filed, he went to a club in the Graves Hotel where the victim was having a private birthday party in a roped-off section.

The documents say Jefferson entered the area and got angry when he was asked to leave. He is accused of grabbing the victim, shoving him to a bench and choking him with both hands.

Nets spokesman Gary Sussman had no comment. Jefferson's agent did not immediately return a phone message.

Jefferson's first court hearing is set for June 18.