CHARLOTTE — Ordinarily Charlotte Hornets players are running through drills and getting in shape for the season around this time of year. Tuesday, the Hornets facility remained locked due to the NBA Labor impasse.

A group of NBA players could only stand outside as the reality of a shortened season grows nearer.

"It's rough on everybody," Hornets Guard Dell Curry said. "You want to be inside that building working out, practicing and preparing for the season. It's not getting done, and it's a sad day for everybody."

Now that the Hornets have some free time, some are finding other things to do.

Charlotte Coach Dave Cowens and several players traded the play book for a children's book.

They used their free time to read stories to young Charlotte students. The program is part of a 30-week deal with First Union.