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Report: LeBron, others were frustrated by Bucks' decision to not play

Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Many NBA players, including LeBron James, were frustrated or caught off guard by the Milwaukee Bucks' decision not to play Wednesday's playoff game against the Orlando Magic, sources told Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes.

The Bucks' refusal to play in the wake of the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin, led to the postponement of several more playoff games at the NBA's Florida campus Wednesday and Thursday.

Players participating in other postseason series felt obligated to sit out because the Bucks' decision wasn't part of an organized plan of action, according to Haynes.

James and others reportedly took issue with Bucks guard George Hill - who was a central figure in Milwaukee's decision not to play - during Wednesday night's players' meeting. James was apparently frustrated with Hill because there was no coordinated, large-scale plan beyond the walkout.

Miami Heat veteran Udonis Haslem told Hill during the meeting it was irresponsible to suggest players leave the campus because younger NBAers lack the financial security for such a move, sources told Haynes.

Haslem reportedly asked James what he intended to do as the face of the league. James told players at the meeting, "We're out," exiting the room with most of his Los Angeles Lakers teammates and members of the Los Angeles Clippers following him, reports Haynes. But subsequent overnight discussions into Thursday apparently led James to a change of heart.

James was reportedly stern in calling on team owners to do more in aiding the Black community and to use more of their resources to combat systemic racism. Owners have apparently promised to do so.

The players reportedly decided to continue the playoffs after a brief meeting Thursday, though the league has not yet officially rescheduled games.

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