BEREA, Ohio (AP) — LeBron James called Browns receiver Braylon Edwards “childish” for allegedly punching James’ friend early Monday morning outside of a Cleveland night club.
James said Edwards punched Edward Givens, a friend of James’ and a promoter with a Cleveland marketing firm who was working outside the club around 2:30 a.m.
“I’ve never crossed paths with Braylon before, but it seems like there’s a little jealousy going on with Braylon and me and my friends. I have no idea why,” James said. “I’ve never said anything to Braylon at all. But for him to do that is very childish. My friend is 130 pounds. Seriously. It’s like hitting one of my kids. It doesn’t make sense.”
James says he was home when the fight occurred, but got a call from Givens telling him about it at 7 a.m. Monday.
Browns coach Eric Mangini said he has spoken with Braylon Edwards about the alleged fight.
The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported that a 28-year-old man accused Edwards of punching him in the face following an argument. The man said Edwards hit him with a closed fist. He said he suffered a black eye and cut and was treated at a hospital.
Mangini said he was aware of the incident. He added his players’ personal conduct is important and that he was still gathering information on the incident.
Edwards did not catch a pass in Sunday’s 23-20 overtime loss to Cincinnati. It was the first time in 62 career games Edwards did not have at least one reception.
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