The wait is over: LeBron James, the NBA's best player is returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers. James, a native of Akron, Ohio, made his announcement Friday in an article published by SI.com.
"Before anyone ever cared where I would play basketball, I was a kid from Northeast Ohio. It's where I walked. It's where I ran. It's where I cried. It's where I bled. It holds a special place in my heart," James said. "People there have seen me grow up. I sometimes feel like I'm their son.
"Their passion can be overwhelming. But it drives me. I want to give them hope when I can. I want to inspire them when I can. My relationship with Northeast Ohio is bigger than basketball. I didn't realize that four years ago. I do now."
I am shocked & disappointed in today's news. However I will never forget what Lebron brought us for 4 years. Thanks for memories @KingJames
— Micky Arison (@MickyArison) July 11, 2014
James went on the explain his reasons for leaving the Cavs for the Miami Heat four years ago. It was a combination of seeking an NBA title and his friendship with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
During his stint in Miami, James achieved his title hopes, winning two championship rings while reaching the NBA Finals all four years of the Big 3's tenure. James' announcement is a far different cry from the one he made in 2010.
He appeared in an ESPN-broadcast to say that he was 'Taking my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat.' As a result, James was roundly criticized nationally and more harshly in Northeast Ohio. Cavaliers owner an Gilbert also weighed in on the matter, writing a mean-spirited letter personally attacking James' decision to leave Cleveland.
Gilbert referred to James as 'cowardly' among other derogatory names. And fans burned his jersey on the streets of Cleveland. The letter, which remained on the Cavs' website for four years, was finally deleted on July 7.
Earlier on Friday a source close to James told ESPN that the letter was the only reason the star forward had not yet announced where he would play next season. All of that is now water under the bridge; James is going back home.
Gilbert expressed his new opinion of James.
Welcome Home @kingjames. I am excited for the fans and people of Cleveland and Ohio. No fans and people deserve a winner more than them..... — Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) July 11, 2014
James' presence makes the Cavaliers among the favorites to represent the East in the NBA Finals. But he is not guaranteeing an NBA title for Cleveland at this time.
"I'm not promising a championship. I know how hard that is to deliver. We're not ready right now. No way," James said. "Of course, I want to win next year, but I'm realistic. It will be a long process, much longer than it was in 2010.
"My patience will get tested. I know that. I'm going into a situation with a young team and a new coach. I will be the old head. But I get a thrill out of bringing a group together and helping them reach a place they didn't know they could go.
"I see myself as a mentor now and I'm excited to lead some of these talented young guys. I think I can help Kyrie Irving become one of the best point guards in our league. I think I can help elevate Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters. And I can't wait to reunite with Anderson Varejao, one of my favorite teammates."
This time around, James will not hold a press conference. His statement to Sports Illustrated will suffice.
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