Ronald William "Ron" Artest, Jr. (born November 13, 1979) is an American (United States) professional basketball player who is currently with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA (National Basketball Association). Artest gained a reputation as one of the leagues premier defenders as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2004. He was a major participant in the Pacers-Pistons brawl and is known for his sometimes eccentric, outspoken behavior.