Ron Artest has a back-up plan in case the NBA lockout torpedoes next season -- we're told, Mr. World Peace is currently in talks with "Dancing with the Stars" ... and is seriously thinking about competing.Nothing's official yet -- but sources tell us, both Artest and "Dancing" producers have been in touch to hash out a possible deal ... and Ron's pretty excited about the prospect.But here's the catch -- "Dancing" won't end 'til November and basketball season typically starts in October ... which means if the lockout ends early, Ron could be S.O.L.That said, Ron could theoretically handle both commitments simultaneously -- because as TMZ first reported, "Dancing" producers are desperate for A-list talent ... so there will be NO minimum rehearsal requirement next season.

See also
'Dancing w/ the Stars' -- Sorry for All the D-ListersAl Sharpton Rejects 'Dancing w/ the Stars' -- Again!! Paula Abdul Will Not Be Dancing With Any Stars

Ron Artest -- In Talks with 'Dancing w/ the Stars'

Ron Artest has a back-up plan in case the NBA lockout torpedoes next season -- we're told, Mr. World Peace is currently in talks with "Dancing with the Stars" ... and is seriously thinking about competing.Nothing's official yet -- but sources tell us, both Artest and "Dancing" producers have been in touch to hash out a possible deal ... and Ron's pretty excited about the prospect.But here's the catch -- "Dancing" won't end 'til November and basketball season typically starts in October ... which means if the lockout ends early, Ron could be S.O.L.That said, Ron could theoretically handle both commitments simultaneously -- because as TMZ first reported, "Dancing" producers are desperate for A-list talent ... so there will be NO minimum rehearsal requirement next season. See also 'Dancing w/ the Stars' -- Sorry for All the D-ListersAl Sharpton Rejects 'Dancing w/ the Stars' -- Again!! Paula Abdul Will Not Be Dancing With Any Stars

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