Stephen Jackson of the National Basketball Association's Indiana Pacers was charged on Thursday with criminal recklessness related to a fight last week at an Indianapolis strip club, police said.

Stephen Jackson of the Indiana Pacers, seen here in July 2006, faces felony charges stemming from an early morning brawl last Friday outside a strip club, a prosecutor's spokesman said.[AFP]

A not guilty plea was entered in Marion County Superior Court on behalf of the 28-year-old starting guard, who was booked for criminal recklessness, battery and disorderly conduct. He subsequently posted $10,000 bond and was released.

Police said Jackson inserted himself into a fight Oct. 6 outside Club Rio, firing his handgun several times into the air in a confrontation between at least one other Pacers player, a friend and at least two other men.

At the time, police said it appeared Jackson had acted in self-defense after being punched by an assailant and hit by a car, slightly injuring his leg and hip. But an affidavit filed by police showed he kicked one man and fired shots before and after being hit by the car.

Police arrested two men earlier this week, one for being the driver of the vehicle that struck Jackson, and the other, a friend of the Pacers, for his role in the brawl.

The other players at the club were Jamaal Tinsley, Marquis Daniels and Jimmie Hunter. They were not charged.

Jackson's attorney could not immediately be reached for comment. The criminal recklessness charge is a felony, carrying a penalty of up to three years in prison.

Jackson was one of several players suspended two years ago for brawling with fans in a game against the Detroit Pistons in Auburn Hills, Michigan. He was on court-ordered probation at the time of the recent fight.