BRIEFLY : JUDGE: USC DIDN'T DEFAME SPORTSCASTERS.

Byline: - Daily News Staff and Wire Services

A Los Angeles Superior Court judge has dismissed former USC radio broadcasters Larry Kahn and Mike Lamb's claim they were defamed by members of the university's athletic department, including athletic director Mike Garrett.

Judge Richard C. Hubbell ruled the claim lacked merit. Hubbell also ruled against Kahn and Lamb claims that USC overcharged them in their radio contract and interfered with their right to negotiate with other parties.

``They claimed USC slandered and overcharged them in their contract,'' said Dave Roberts, an attorney representing USC. ``And the judge ruled in our favor.''

In June, Hubbell ruled that a company owned by Kahn and Lamb owed USC at least $720,000 for breach of contract under the terms of a three-year radio contract that expired last year.

Both decisions will probably be appealed, according to Rob Lisnow, an attorney representing Kahn and Lamb.

The lawsuit has one more matter to be resolved. USC has filed a motion asking for a judgment against Kahn and Lamb as individuals, in case their company, KLM Sports, has no assets to cover the $720,000 for breach of contract.

``Their case is to try and force Mr. Kahn and Mr. Lamb into bankruptcy,'' Lisnow said.

``Our goal is simply to recover money that wasn't paid,'' said U.S. general consul Todd Dickey. ``Forcing them into bankruptcy doesn't serve any purpose.''

- Scott Wolf

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