LeBron James Get $15K Fine Over Sam Cassell-Inspired "Big Balls" Celebration

BY Erika Marie 4.9K Views
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LeBron James
He was also warned about using profanity "during media availability in response to league-imposed discipline" after he called his suspension "bullsh*t.

Immediately after one controversy seemingly ended, another followed. LeBron James has had quite the week as his skills in the paint haven't been the only thing discussed in the sports world. First, there was the elbow seen 'round the world that caused da ruckus with Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons. Stewart lost it during the heated moment and continued to charge after James, despite being held back by several officials.

LeBron would go on to call it an accident and Stewart would say otherwise, but the altercation landed both men suspensions. Then, the nail-biting overtime game involving the Los Angeles Lakers and the Indiana Pacers also captivated sports lovers, but it was Bron's celebratory moment that has result in another penalty from the league.

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After scoring a much-needed three-pointer in overtime, LeBron made what many consider to be an inappropriate gesture near his genitals, a la Sam Cassell’s iconic “Big Balls” celebration. It has been something that many NBA players have done throughout their tenures, often knowing that a fine is imminent but taking the chance anyway. While some fans may not believe that it was a big deal, the NBA takes these moments quite seriously and decided to fine the sports giant $15K.

When James was suspended over the Stewart incident, he called the decision "bullsh*t." The NBA took issue with that, as well, and when they fined him they also issued a warning about "using profane language during media availability in response to league-imposed discipline.” 


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About The Author
Since 2019, Erika Marie has worked as a journalist for HotNewHipHop, covering music, film, television, art, fashion, politics, and all things regarding entertainment. With 20 years in the industry under her belt, Erika Marie moved from a writer on the graveyard shift at HNHH to becoming a Features Editor, highlighting long-form content and interviews with some of Hip Hop’s biggest stars. She has had the pleasure of sitting down with artists and personalities like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Salt ’N Pepa, Nick Cannon, Rah Digga, Rakim, Rapsody, Ari Lennox, Jacquees, Roxanne Shante, Yo-Yo, Sean Paul, Raven Symoné, Queen Naija, Ryan Destiny, DreamDoll, DaniLeigh, Sean Kingston, Reginae Carter, Jason Lee, Kamaiyah, Rome Flynn, Zonnique, Fantasia, and Just Blaze—just to name a few. In addition to one-on-one chats with influential public figures, Erika Marie also covers content connected to the culture. She’s attended and covered the BET Awards as well as private listening parties, the Rolling Loud festival, and other events that emphasize established and rising talents. Detroit-born and Long Beach (CA)-raised, Erika Marie has eclectic music taste that often helps direct the interests she focuses on here at HNHH. She finds it necessary to report on cultural conversations with respect and honor those on the mic and the hardworking teams that help get them there. Moreover, as an advocate for women, Erika Marie pays particular attention to the impact of femcees. She sits down with rising rappers for HNHH—like Big Jade, Kali, Rubi Rose, Armani Caesar, Amy Luciani, and Omerettà—to gain their perspectives on a fast-paced industry.