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By Dan Whitcomb
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The star of the Lakers formerly known as Ron Artest officially becomes the World Peace Metta on Friday when a Los Angeles court commissioner has approved the name change.
World Peace, his season will compete in ABC's "Dancing With the Stars", was given the change in the time of the first season of the series on Monday night, after rinsing ensures persistent traffic ticket.
"Changing my name was intended to inspire and unite the youth of the world. After this short period of time, my tickets are paid and I'm glad it's now official," World Peace said in a statement.
World peace was not in court for the hearing but was represented by counsel.
A press officer for World Peace, Courtney Barnes, said the name change would require the defender the Lakers to get a new license, passport and other official documents, but will not affect his contract with the team .
Ronald William Artest's former, 31, will wear the new name on the back of the shirt of the Lakers next season.
"World peace has proposed the name change for years and always knew he wanted his name to world peace, but it took many years of research and introspection to find the first name that was both personally meaningful and inspiring, "says Barnes." World Peace Metta felt right. "
World peace is considered one of the defenders in the NBA in the first and was named Defensive Player of the Year for the 2003-2004 season.
In November 2004, was involved in a long suspension after a clash between fans and players during the game against the Detroit Pistons.
He joined the Lakers in 2009 and helped lead the franchise to a championship.
World peace will be paired with professional dance Peta Murgatroyd on this season, "Dancing With the Stars", in competition with a cast that includes actor David Arquette, transgender activist Bono Chaz, journalist Nancy Grace and reality TV star Kristin Cavallari.
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