I have never been a fan of Larry Hughes.  I was not a fan of his game in college or when he entered the pros.  When he became a Cav, I became even less of a fan of his.

Hughes made me a fan yesterday, and not just because he is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.  Hughes showed he is more than a basketball player yesterday by honoring a previous commitment he had made to children and families of the Ronald McDonald House in Cleveland.

Once the trade was made official, he was no longer a Cav.  Yet, he still spoke to these people and not only represented the Cavs in a positive manner, but the NBA as well. 

While on the court, Hughes has struggled to find his mark in making baskets, passes and defensive stops.  Off the court yesterday, he nailed it.

I won't miss those 3-for-14 shooting nights with five turnovers.  I won't miss the tired effort on the defensive end and the awkwardness he displays on the court at times.  But yesterday's effort shows Chicago is getting a player who, at the very least, understands life off the court and may still have the ability to get it together on it. 

Respect is not given, it is earned.  Yesterday, Larry Hughes earned my respect as a man and several people were touched by his efforts.