CHICAGO (AP) — The Rev. Jesse Jackson says Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert sees LeBron James as a “runaway slave” and that his comments after the forward decided to join the Miami Heat put the player in danger.
Shortly after James announced his decision Thursday night, Gilbert fired off an incendiary letter to Cleveland’s fans, ripping the 25-year-old and promising to deliver a title before James wins one. He called James’ decision “cowardly” and later told The Associated Press he believes James quit during a handful of Cavaliers playoff games.
Jackson says Gilbert’s comments “personify a slave master mentality” and the owner should face a “challenge” from the league.
Messages were left Sunday night seeking comment from Gilbert, the Cavaliers, James and the NBA.
WATCH NBC SPORTS COVERAGE OF LeBRON’S DECISION TO LEAVE CLEVELAND:
[NBCVIDEO source=”SPORTS” video=”http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/33399756″ w=”592″ h=”346″ launch_id=”38175011″ id=”msnbc4d7ceb”]
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