National Basketball Association

NYC mayor: LeBron could have normal life in NYC

Published Jun. 30, 2010 2:47 p.m. ET

foxsports

Hours before LeBron James becomes a free agent, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants him to know one major advantage of being a superstar in the Big Apple.

The mayor says celebrities aren't bothered much in his city of more than 8 million people.

The Cleveland Cavaliers forward is one of the most sought-after players ever to be a free agent in any sport. It becomes official at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time Thursday, and many cities want him.

If the 6-foot-8 forward were to choose the Nets or the Knicks, Bloomberg says he could enjoy a normal, private life in New York City.

Bloomberg says stars love New York because they get publicity working in the biggest city in the nation but aren't bothered while walking down the street.