Milwaukee --
LeBron James does not have a problem with his appearance on the cover of Vogue magazine, despite how the photograph has sparked concerns about how he is portrayed.
James is dressed in athletic gear, baring his teeth, with one hand bouncing a basketball and the other embracing model Gisele Bundchen.
James is often seen on magazine covers nattily dressed and smiling. He said the Vogue cover was about having fun and showing excitement.
"It wasn't a situation we're being rough or looking mean," James said. "Just showing a little emotion. We had a few looks and that was the best one we had."
Many view the cover as an animalistic stereotype frequently associated with black males. Some have called the cover a modern-day image of King Kong and actress Fay Wray.
Dr. John Hoberman, a University of Texas professor, echoed this in a recent column by Jemele Hill of ESPN.com. Hoberman is the author of "Darwin's Athletes: How Sports Has Damaged Black America and Preserved the Myth of Race."
James took the criticism in stride.
"Everything my name is on is going to be criticized in a good way or bad way," James said. "Who cares what anyone says?"
Famed photographer Annie Leibovitz took the photo and James was happy with the results.
"Yes," said James, when asked if he was pleased with the cover. "Absolutely. It was good."
James is only the third man to ever be pictured on the cover of Vogue, joining actors Richard Gere and George Clooney.
OUT OF ACTION: Ben Wallace did not travel with the team to Milwaukee. He remained in Cleveland because of back spasms he suffered during Friday's game against Toronto. Wallace started the second half against the Raptors but left shortly after. Saturday's game was the second Wallace has missed because of back spasms since he joined the Cavs.
"I'm a little concerned," said coach Mike Brown. "He got an MRI and some other things and everything checked out negative. He's listed as day to day . . . when he's healthy, he's been good for us. If we can get him enough rest down the stretch, especially in the playoffs, [hopefully] it doesn't bother him."
LATE ARRIVAL: Scheduled to leave for Milwaukee after Friday night's game, the Cavs were forced to wait until Saturday morning because of a severe snowstorm in the Midwest.