James' manager: Race played role in media coverage

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. – LeBron James' manager said he believes race played a factor in how the two-time reigning NBA MVP's decision to join the Miami Heat was covered this summer.

Maverick Carter did not cite specifics when talking to CNN for a story that aired Wednesday night, other than saying race "definitely played a role in some of the stuff coming out of the media" during coverage of James' free-agent saga.

It's not the first time race has been a discussion point in the aftermath of what was called "The Decision," an oft-criticized televised special that raised $3 million for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

James did not want to spend much time on the subject after Thursday's Heat practice.

"I think people are looking too far into it," James said. "But at the same time, sometimes it does play a part in it. I've said what I had to say, and I'll continue to move on."

After James made his announcement July 8, Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert responded that same evening by releasing a fiery letter to fans of his team, saying James was being "narcissistic" and "cowardly." That prompted Rev. Jesse Jackson to enter the fray, saying the Cavs owner saw James as a "runaway slave."

Through a representative, Carter declined comment Thursday.

"I don't walk in LeBron's shoes," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "From our standpoint, we've moved on from the summer."