Wednesday's Sports In Brief

hicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has left the team following the death of his mother.

Urlacher's mother, Lavoyda, died unexpectedly at her home in Texas, the team said in releasing a statement from their veteran leader.

"My first priority right now is to be with my family as we mourn her loss and make the arrangements to lay her to rest," Urlacher said. "This is a very difficult and emotional time for us and I sincerely ask that you respect our privacy."

It wasn't clear whether Urlacher will be back for practice or in time for Sunday's game at New Orleans.

Mullin to have

jersey retired

Newly enshrined Hall of Famer Chris Mullin will have his No. 17 retired by the Golden State Warriors.

The ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 20, before the team hosts the Pacers. Mullin, enshrined in the Hall of Fame last month, played his first 12 seasons with Golden State, then three with Indiana before returning to the Warriors for his final season in 2000-01.

Mullin finished with 17,911 points in 986 games.