NBA star LeBron James says a racial slur spray painted on the front gate of his home in Los Angeles "just goes to show that racism will always be a part of the world, a part of America."
The LAPD says the slur was painted over Wednesday morning. The department responded to the home about 7 a.m. PT, but it was not immediately clear when the language was painted on the gate.
A source familiar with the case told NBC News the "n-word" was spray-painted on the driveway gate.
Details about the investigation at the four-time league MVP's Brentwood mansion were not immediately available. No arrests were reported Wednesday, but authorities will likely check security camera video in the area to identify the perpetrator.
James is set to play in the NBA Finals, which begin Thursday between his Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors.
Speaking in Oakland, James said, "if this is to shed a light and continuing to keep the conversation going on my behalf then I'm OK with it."
"My family is safe, they're safe and that's the most important," James said. "But it just goes to show that racism will always be a part of the world, a part of America. You know hate in America, especially for African Americans, is living every day. Even though that it's concealed most of the time, you know people hide their faces and will say things about you and when they see you they smile in your face, it's alive every single day."
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James purchased the 9,440-square-foot home in 2015, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Investigators are combing through surveillance video provided by neighbors.
"This is a man who should be celebrated and emulated for everything he's done," said neighbor Mary Kay Wulf. "To deface his house is really appalling."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
