David Stern and the NBA fined LeBron James $25,000 for skipping the postgame news conference after Cleveland 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.

The NBA initially said James wouldn't be penalized, citing his usual cooperation with the press. Stern said he reconsidered after thinking about it more.

"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.

Via SI.com

Cleveland Cavaliers

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