Basketball: LeBron fires shot at Barkley

LeBron James celebrates a win over the Golden State Warriors. Photo / Getty Images

LeBron James has hit out at NBA basketball hall of famer Charles Barkley after his stinging criticism of the Cleveland Cavaliers star last week.

Barkley took issue last week with James' call for the Cavaliers to secure another playmaker to help contend for a second-straight NBA title.

The outspoken TNT "Inside the NBA" analyst called James "inappropriate" and "whiny."

James told ESPN following the Cavs' 104-97 loss at Dallas on Tuesday night that Barkley is "a hater" and added that he's not going to let Barkley "disrespect my legacy."

James also brought up some of Barkley's past controversies and legal troubles, before saying, "All I've done for my entire career is represent the NBA the right way."