David Stern has issued Cleveland Cavaliers star and the 08-09 regular season’s MVP award winner LeBron James a $25,000 fine for skipping a post game news conference after the Cavs lost to Orlando in the Eastern Conference Finals.
“He asked that I express to the media, the Magic and the fans his apology, and particularly the young fans, because he knows he has a responsibility to all of our fans, and that sportsmanship is appropriate whether you win or whether you lose,” Stern said.
Initially NBA commissioner David Stern said he wasn’t going to punish LeBron but after more thought he chose to penalize LeBron.
“Certainly as it related to the media, we have a rule, you guys know that we’ve had some interesting issues over the years with some of our coaches and the like, and it was inappropriate for me to give someone a pass here,” Stern said.
Stern is obviously trying to set an example to the rest of the league but I’m sure the NBA wouldn’t have made half the money they did this season if LeBron wasn’t in the league. The guy pulls all the crowds and it seems a bit harsh for LeBron to be fined for missing a post game press conference. It would have no affect on LeBron though considering all the money he earns from endorsement and his salary.
I’d be pissed off if I was LeBron too, its the usual story for LeBron spectacular during the regular season but can’t quite get over the hump in the playoffs. I think the Cavs need to get more help for LeBron, I think they need to sign a really pitbull-like big man this off season or get one through the draft because Anderson Varejao just isn’t big enough.
I think the Cavs definitely need to improve this off-season to keep LeBron happy and hope he signs with them again in 2010 when he becomes a free agent.
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