Paul Pierce has "respect" for LeBron James

Washington Wizards star Paul Pierce has revealed that he has "total respect" for LeBron James, despite their rivalry on the court.

Pierce and James have crossed paths five times in the last seven seasons in the playoffs and have had a history of run-ins on the court.

"I think a lot of it is really misunderstood," Pierce told the media.

"If I see LeBron walking down the street, it's not going to be no fistfight. I've got a lot of respect for him. It's like fighting for the same girl. How am I going to be cool with that guy? I've got total respect for him as a person. It's just the thing we go through on the court."

The pair will renew their rivalry on Friday night when the Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Wizards hoping to improve on their 5-5 record so far this season.