Songaila to have surgery

Washington – Washington Wizards forward Darius Songaila will have back surgery for a herniated disc and be sidelined up to three months. The 6-foot-9 Songaila was injured while playing for Lithuania’s national team at the world championships in August.

Auerbach laid to rest

Falls Church, Va. – Red Auerbach was buried in a simple graveside ceremony Tuesday, with Hall of Famers Bill Russell and John Thompson and commissioner David Stern among those paying last respects. About 150 family, friends and special guests attended the private burial.

Heat get their rings

Miami – The Miami Heat received their championship rings in a pregame ceremony before opening the new season against the Chicago Bulls Tuesday. The organization is giving out 415 rings to employees, but the 15 players’ rings are obviously the most spectacular of the bunch.

Ford, Ridnour sign

Point guard T.J. Ford and the Toronto Raptors agreed Tuesday on a three-year contract extension. The deal could pay the guard as much as $33 million.

Luke Ridnour signed Tuesday with the Seattle Supersonics through 2009-2010 for $24.5 million, including incentives.