Los Angeles Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni has apologised for an outburst aimed at fans who have been discouraged by the way his team is currently playing.
The Lakers have found it tough going in recent weeks, and their boss reacted angrily to a reporter's questioning regarding some fans' feelings towards the side's performances.
However, D'Antoni has since apologised for his comments over the Christmas period.
"I didn't mean anything wrong. I said it wrong. It was not a bright thing to say. That's what happens when you are full of emotionally-fuelled meanness - You lash out," said the coach.
"The right thing to convey is that I'm really proud of the guys we have, and I love these guys.
"And, you know, when somebody attacks your family, not attacks, but somebody asks you a question like, 'Why you guys aren't so good and we're disappointed,' well, I just lashed out. And it wasn't the right thing to say. We've got great fans."
The Lakers currently hold fourth place in the Pacific Division, with a record of 13-16 for the season.
