LeBron Reportedly Takes Key Role in Ousting Hunter

NBPA player reps voted unanimously yesterday to terminate the contract of Exec Dir Billy Hunter in the wake of a report that he placed his interests above those of players. In a short press conference after a meeting yesterday in Houston, NBPA President Derek Fisher said, “Today, for the NBPA was a day of change. ... We want to make it clear that we are here to serve only the best interests of the players.  No threats, no lies, no distractions will stop us from serving our membership.” Fisher announced that he would remain as president (Liz Mullen, Staff Writer).

Sources said that player representatives "voted 24-0 in favor of ending Hunter's stay with the union." Six teams "weren't represented at the meeting."  A source said Heat F LeBron James "really stepped up, led the charge. His voice was heard. It was great, and it was important" (SPORTS.YAHOO.com, 2/16).