Ron Artest is still Ron Artest. Reporters were told Friday morning at Stanley Mosk Courthouse that Artest, who was petitioning to legally change his name to Metta World Peace, will not be able to do so right away.

A court official said, "Ron has to clear outstanding traffic warrants" before a name change can take effect.

Before annoucement of the Lakers forward's outstanding warrants, it was expected that the name change would be made official Friday.

His next court date is set for Sept. 16.

More coming on latimes.com.

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--Broderick Turner

Photo: Ron Artest. Credit: Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times.