The Lakers forward had hoped to change his name Friday. However, a Los Angeles court commissioner decided to put off the ruling until September, all because of some outstanding traffic warrants.
Artest didn't appear in court Friday and his attorney refused to comment.
The 31-year-old requested the name change back in June and was really counting on it happening Friday. He announced on Twitter Thursday night that he was planning a celebratory barbecue.
Metta is the Buddhist virtue of kindness.
Artest has said in several interviews that he hopes it will bring greater awareness toward world peace and mental health issues.
