FLEMINGTON, N.J. (AP) — A judge refused Thursday to throw out a manslaughter indictment against former NBA star Jayson Williams, who is charged in the shooting death of a limousine driver.

Judge Edward Coleman said defense attorneys failed to prove Williams was a victim of bias or vindictiveness by prosecutors.

Williams, 35, is accused of recklessly handling a shotgun that killed Costas Christofi on Feb. 14, 2002, at Williams' home in Alexandria Township. If convicted on all charges, Williams could face nearly 55 years in prison.

Coleman was to consider a series of other defense motions Thursday.

Williams' trial is expected to begin in January.

The 6-foot-10 Williams was among the NBA's best rebounders when leg injuries led to his retirement from the New Jersey Nets in 2000. After the shooting, he was suspended from his job as an NBA analyst for NBC.