The long slow descent of Jayson Williams reached its nadir as the former NBA star was sentenced to five years in prison for shooting a limousine driver in his estate in 2002.

Williams will have to serve at least 18 months for killing Costas "Gus" Christofi and attempting to cover up the slaying before parole eligibility is awarded.

"I know there's nothing I can do to bring Mr. Christofi back," a teary Williams told members of the slain man's family in court. "I am deeply, deeply sorry. I pray that today brings you some comfort."

A prison cell might be the safest place for Williams these days, as the former ball player and NBC sports commentator has moved from one misstep to another since the 2002 shooting.

His wife filed for divorce and accused Williams of abusing her. Authorities also say Williams attempted suicide during a bizarre standoff with New York City police last year.

Most recently, Williams suffered a broken bone in his neck and was charged with driving while intoxicated in a Jan. 5 car crash in New York City. He may have to serve an additional year if he pleads guilty to the DWI charge.

In 2002, Williams hired Christofi as a driver for a party with members of the Harlem Globetrotters. The group went in to Williams' Alexandria Township estate in the late night hours. The former star began to handle a shotgun in the home, which discharged and fatally struck Christofi.

Williams was acquitted of aggravated manslaughter, but based on witness statements, was convicted of trying to cover up the shooting.

It was then discovered that a prosecutor's investigator called Williams a "street nigger" and Williams' attorneys sought to have the charges dismissed, saying the racist comment showed the investigation was biased. The conviction was upheld.

Williams paid a $2.75 million settlement to Christofi's relatives, who had to sign an agreement saying they believed Williams was sorry for his actions. Since Williams reached the plea bargain arrangement, however, members of the Christofi family have called the prison sentence facing Williams insufficient.