Open letter to LeBron James

By: Bruce White

Dear: LeBron James,

I am hoping that this letter not only reaches you, but that you will seriously consider its contents. As a native New Yorker and a true “LeBron fan”, I am requesting that you not come to New York. I understand that my request may seem somewhat peculiar as you embark on what could possibly be a career defining decision. But, please hear me out!

Needless to say, over the past several months there has been much speculation by both sports analysts and fans as to where you will end up after you enter your free agency. A large part of this public debate has been consumed with reasons why you should be outfitted with a New York Knicks jersey. Even our “beloved” mayor Michael Bloomberg felt compelled to make a much-publicized appeal to try to convince you to come to the Big Apple. The so-called media experts are quick to point out how your presence could help to boost a sagging new york city economy, not to mention, a suffering basketball franchise. Those same people also seem to know what you want LeBron. And, that is, to play at the Mecca of basketball, none other, than Madison Square Garden.

Aside from your desire to accumulate championship rings, they also discuss the many perks that would be afforded you by playing in a market that just happens to be the advertising capital of the world. After all, these are bright lights and it’s a big city. But LeBron, please don’t come to New York!

Now, of course, we New Yorkers would love to see the Knicks do better, in fact, much better. And your coming here would practically guarantee that, if not, an outright championship. (Gee, it’s been along time since one of those has been bestowed upon the Knicks; over 35 years to be more specific.) The possibility of that happening is a rather exciting prospect, indeed.

While in pursuit of your phenomenal talent those who can write the big checks will make the type of offers that most of us could only dream about. They will attempt to lure you here by rolling out the red carpet and will waste no time in reminding you just how great this city is. They may even refer to you as “King James” while flaunting admiration for your physical prowess. And then, of course, there’s the issue of how much more you could generate in earnings off the court as a result of playing here. These things may be indisputable, But LeBron, please don’t come to New York!

However, if you decide to come to New York, perhaps, there’s a few things you should know that might not have been covered during the negotiation process. For example, if you find yourself walking the streets of New York don’t be alarmed if you are stopped and frisked by the police. Last year nearly 600 thousand, mostly Black and Latino males, underwent this routine procedure. Even though 94 percent of them had not commited any crime. But, I’m sure it was for their own good. However, if you prefer to drive instead, you may want to take a little extra precaution. You see, the NYPD become very suspicious when a black man drives a car, especially a really expensive one. But, just tell ‘em you’re LeBron James and I’m sure they’ll display some Courtesy, Professionalism, and Respect.

Yet, if they demand further proof, be careful when you reach for your wallet to show them your ID. A man named Amadou Diallo tried doing just that, and let’s just say, the outcome was rather disastrous. Both mayor Bloomberg and police commissioner Ray Kelly have worked hard to assure us that nothing like that would ever happen again; unless, of course, your name happens to be Sean Bell. But, to their credit, the NYPD showed an outpouring of sympathy for the victims of those incidents. After all, just imagine what those poor cops had to endure by going through a trial and missing all those days of work. They could have devoted that time toward protecting us and keeping this city safe.

LeBron, it’s been estimated that you could generate over $1 billion in revenue for New York City if you decided to play for the Knicks. Well, I’m sure that’s got to make our mayor grin from ear to ear. If there’s one thing Bloomberg knows, it’s how to deal with money. He spent over $100 million of his own vast fortune and secured himself a third term after ignoring a two term referendum that had been voted for twice by the people. And never hesitating to show his softer side, he wanted the homeless to pay rent in order to stay in the city’s homeless shelters. It was just his way of lifting people up by teaching them the meaning of responsibility. But you, need not worry. I’m sure he has bigger plans in store for you. For some strange reason he seems to have a thing for those who make a lot of money. Just ask some of his rich cronies and the big time developers that bulldoze their way around town while currying favors in the form of huge tax breaks and no-bid contracts. And although, many of these projects have come at the expense of displacing some who are economically vulnerable, at least it’s done in the spirit of goodness.

Now, don’t get me wrong, if you came to play ball here that could be a beautiful thing. From the time you entered the league you’ve been known to carry yourself with a measure of dignity and self-respect, while showing consideration for others both on and off the court. It is young black men like yourself that make the rest of us proud by defying the stereotypes and setting a fine example for others to follow. And besides, we crave for the opportunity to finally see the Knicks win with some consistency and to play like they really mean it.

Since we were told to go shopping after the 9/11 terror attacks we seem to have grown accustomed to the business of diversion. Another championship caliber team might be just what we need to help us further forget the staggering 50 percent unemployment rate for black males in this city. Perhaps, a winning season might help us to better cope with being used as cannon fodder in the criminal in-justice system, as well as, the indignities of being racially profiled. Nothing soothes the soul better than to cheer away one’s blues.

LeBron you may not see many who look like you sitting in the stands of Madison Square Garden as a result of high-ticket prices. But, you can take comfort in knowing that we will be rooting for you, that is, if you still want to come to New York.