Hornets owner Shinn says he has prostate cancer

By KEVIN McGILL,

NEW ORLEANS (AP) New Orleans Hornets owner George Shinn says he's been diagnosed with prostate cancer, but remains healthy and is optimistic that he will conquer the disease.

"My wife, Denise, and I remain strong in our faith and will maintain a positive attitude as I battle this with intense fervor and drive," Shinn said in a release issued by the Hornets on Friday.

A businessman from North Carolina, the 68-year-old Shinn has been the owner of the NBA team since 1988.

Team spokesman Harold Kaufman said no details were available on treatment options for Shinn. In the news release, Shinn said the doctors he was consulting were optimistic.

"This is not the first obstacle that I have had to overcome in life, but it will be another one that will be conquered," Shinn said.

Updated November 6, 2009