World Peace Metta: Ron Artest Is Changing Its Name To Improve The World
The court granted the Commissioner forward the request to the Lakers officially changed its name to World Peace Puts on Friday, three weeks after the offer has been blocked because Artest had not paid fines.
Artest, 31, did not attend a brief hearing on Friday.
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Superior Court spokeswoman Patricia Kelly said that Artest new surname will be peace in the world.
His spokeswoman, Courtney Barnes, said Mette player chosen because it is a traditional Buddhist word meaning love, and kindness to all.
"Changing my name would inspire and unite young people around the world," World Peace said in a statement released after the hearing. "After this short period, my bills are paid, and I'm glad it is now official."
He called for a change in June, citing personal reasons only. And 'scheduled to appear on the next season of "Dancing with the Stars."
Barnes wrote in an e-mail to world peace now to get a new license to reflect its new name, but the switch will not affect his contract with the Lakers or endorsement deals.
Artest helped the Lakers win the NBA title in 2010 and in April received an award for outstanding service and dedication to the community.
He has testified before Congress in support of mental health legislation.
Artest is not the first athlete to take an unusual name.
Bernard Lloyd Free, a professional basketball player who played in the league in 1975-88, his name was legally changed in the world in 1981. A friend had given him the nickname because of his 44-inch vertical jump and 360-degree dunks.
In the NFL Johnson, Chad, the receiver has legally changed his name to Ochocinco in August 2008 to reflect his jersey number. The name means "eight five" in Spanish. Ochocinco is now with the New England Patriots.
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