The reason Neji hated Naruto in the beginning is because Naruto had hope and a free destiny,unlike him. Neji was doomed to a terrible fate,because of his branched off lineage in the Hyuuga Clan. He hated the way Naruto could continue to hope and fight,even after he lost. Neji had never been able to do that. After their fight in the Chounin Exam Finals,Neji learned that even though his destiny is sealed,it doesn't mean he has to give up on hope;he can continue to fight,even if he lost.
