CLEVELAND — Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert has more fans and friends than he ever knew.

His emotional, controversial letter criticizing LeBron James for leaving to join Miami spawned an outpouring of fan support for Gilbert. A team spokesman said the team has received thousands of e-mails and phone calls.

On Tuesday, some Cleveland fans offered to pitch in to help Gilbert pay a $100,000 NBA-imposed fine.

Gilbert issued a statement of thanks.

"The humbling offer by so many is another reflection of the strength of Cavs fans and the people who live and work in this region and are always the first to step up and have each other's back," Gilbert said.