Racial slur sprayed on LeBron's house: 'It's tough being black in America'

Racist slur painted on gate

A racist slur was spray-painted on the front gate of James' Los Angeles home, LA police told CNN.

Police received a call Wednesday morning but by the time officers had arrived management stuff had painted over the offending word, LA Police Department officer Aareon Jefferson said.

The Cleveland Cavaliers star bought the house just over two years ago for just under $21 million, according to public records.

The small forward, who leads the defending champions into the opening game of the NBA Finals Thursday night, was not at home.

During the press conference, James expressed relief that his family was unharmed. "My family is safe and that's what's important," he said.

Game 1 of the series against the Golden State Warriors takes place in Oakland, California.