But even James shouldn’t have to deal with the likes of Bob Moore. According to eyewitness accounts, the Washington Wizards fan hurled an insult toward James — a reference about former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate Delonte West and his relationship with James’s mother — as James stood alone in the backcourt on Friday.
Moore said this, of course, because:
1. He was trying to get James off his game.
2. He knew James couldn’t come off the court, as James let Moore know by saying: “If I had a free pass, I’d kick your (butt) right now.”
Security stepped in after Moore replied, “I’m right here baby. Let’s go.”
It’s times like these, I wish security would have escorted Moore onto the court and told him, “Have at it.”
Not to condone violence, but I’m pretty sure there wouldn’t be any. I haven’t found any photos of Moore, but I doubt he rivals James’s 6-foot-8, 250-pound frame. And Moore — given a free pass of his own onto the court — likely and wisely would have fled back to the safety of his seat.
And that’s the problem. Fans are free to heckle players without fear of punishment, except the rare ejection. Comments about a player’s game are fine, but comments about family cross the line.
My solution? Let the Wizards sign Moore to a 10-day contract and suit him up when the Heat are on the schedule again.
Standing next to James on the court, let’s see what kind of trash talking Moore will do then.
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