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Gilbert’s letter cost him $100,000 in a fine from the NBA. But the base of followers in Cleveland is ready to lend a helping hand.
The AP reports that the Cavaliers owner’s scathing letter toward LeBron James have done little to alienate the fan base.
A team spokesman told the wire service that Gilbert has received thousands of e-mails and phone calls, in support of his decision to write it. Beyond written praise, several of those cheerful correspondences even offered to lend a few dollars from their wallets to help Gilbert pay the six-figure fine issued by NBA commissioner David Stern on Monday.
Gilbert responded with a, dare we say, nicer tone to his base of supporters. He plans to direct any contributions to a cause better than his slap-on-the-wrist: the Cavaliers Youth Fund.
“The humbling offer by so many is another reflection of the strength of Cavs fans and the people who live and work in this region and are always the first to step up and have each other’s back,” Gilbert said in a statement. “I will pay this fine myself, but would be grateful and highly appreciative for any fan who redirects the dollars they kindly offered to contribute towards this fine to the Cavaliers Youth Fund, which will positively impact our region’s kids through the numerous local charitable groups the Cavaliers Youth Fund supports.”