DETROIT - The fan accused of instigating Friday night's basketball brawl has broken his silence.

John Green is the fan police believe threw a drink in the face of Indiana Pacers forward Ron Artest, sparking the violent fight involving players and fans.

Members of the media have been staking out Green's West Bloomfield, Mich., home since he was identified this weekend.

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After initially saying he had no comment, Green reluctantly told reporters he has spoken to police about the incident.

"I just wish the whole thing didn't happen, you know," Green said.

"I'm sure the NBA players that got involved in it wish it never happened," he said. "The fans never wished it never happened. I know I don't. It was awful, it was ugly."

Green has served several years in prison and has been convicted of drunken driving, assault, carrying a concealed weapon and writing bad checks.

He could be charged with assault in the incident, as well as violating his probation.

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