Normally, when NBA headlines are centered around Northern California, it’s because A) Monta Ellis went bananas for 40+ points, B) Ellis injured himself while riding a mo-ped, or C) another victim fell into critical condition after watching Andris Biedrins shoot a free throw.

But the NBA now operates in courts that don’t have three point lines or no-charge zones. Tuesday, NBA players will file one lawsuit against the NBA in the Northern District of California, and another in Minnesota, both for violation of the Sherman Act (Antitrust), Breach Of Contract & Interference with Contracts — whatever all that legal mumbo jumbo means.

Players’ lawyer David Boies said there are two reasons for filing the lawsuit in California:

1) the district has a history of moving cases along quickly

and

2) Billy Hunter “has a great fondness for Oakland.” Seriously.

The players plan to use David Stern’s own words against him, especially the ultimatum he gave players last week.

And in case you care, which you probably don’t, Leon Powe was one of five players named as plaintiffs in the case. The others are Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard. A lot of scoring, but not much size up front.

Caron Butler, Ben Gordon, Anthony Tolliver and Derrick Williams are plaintiffs in Minnesota. A reasonably talented squad, especially if Williams proves worthy of his draft selection, but thin in the paint and desperately in need of a point guard.