Former Wizard Takes Swipe At LeBron James 'Haters' In Open Letter

Former Washington Wizards big man Etan Thomas has sent LeBron James' “haters” a strong message.

In a recent open letter he wrote for the Guardian, Thomas heaped praise for the four-time NBA champion.

But more importantly, the former NBA journeyman slammed the criticisms James has been receiving, especially during the time when he decided to leave Cleveland Cavaliers for Miami Heat in 2010.

“But even if those accusations [about James] are true, they ignore the fact that athletes evolve,” he wrote. “Many have been reluctant to allow LeBron to grow. In fact, his performance this season – both on and off the court – should have silenced all of his critics.”

Aside from being an influential NBA superstar, James has also taken part in the movement for fairness and equality. For Thomas, James’ “haters” should just appreciate his incredible character instead of always nitpicking at his accomplishments.

“Despite this, I am sure the dedicated LeBron James haters will find something new to complain about,” he said.

Thomas concluded that he personally witnessed James’ greatness in and outside the basketball court. Back in the 2008 NBA Playoffs, the Harlem native had just recovered from a heart surgery. He was surprised when the then-Cleveland Cavaliers superstar consoled him.

Impressed by James’ off-court personality, Thomas can't help but wonder why people still criticize him.

“I know first hand just how talented a basketball player LeBron is, but his greatness only begins with his skills on the court,” the former Wizards center explained. “He showed that empathy again when we faced the Cavaliers in the playoffs in 2008. [When] I had recently had heart surgery .”

“I find it strange when people so confidently think they know the personality and character of an athlete like LeBron from what they see on TV or read on Twitter,” he added.

James proved naysayers wrong once again as he was able to claim his fourth NBA title with the Los Angeles Lakers.

After steering the Lakers to their 17th NBA championship and copping his fourth NBA Finals MVP trophy, the 35-year-old addressed the fans and demanded the “respect” he deserves.

"It means a lot. It means a lot to represent this franchise. We just want our respect. Rob [Pelinka, Lakers general manager] wants his respect, coach [Frank] Vogel wanted his respect, our organization wants their respect, Laker Nation wants their respect and I want my damn respect too," he stated in his post-game interview.