LeBron James' Homecoming Won't Be Convivial as Raging Fans Await

So now he’s scheduled to return home, not wearing a Cleveland uniform seemingly, but a Miami Heat uniform that has the bitter folks in his native town weeping over the abrupt departure he made over the summer during an abnormal free-agency adventure.

He didn’t have to request a trade to become known as a traitor in a town which once considered him an economic boon for emerging into a virtuous hero ever since LeBron James elevated his legacy at home, verified as a global superstar for a city that witnessed sporting indignities in the past.

He wasn’t accused of using performance-enhancing drugs, but adored for increasingly inflating the revenue and uplifting the Cleveland Cavaliers into prime contention. He has never been convicted for committing a severe crime, but has stood as the symbol for a forlorn franchise and amazed the crowd by routinely entertaining the population with his conventional baby powder toss to fuel an exquisite sporting theater in Cleveland.


It’s hard to understand a thin line between love and hate, just as much as it’s hard to understand this national disgust and hostility towards a megastar that had the gifted talent in transforming the bleak culture. In that span, he was proudly idolized and lifted the spirit among supporters, until he sacrificed his ego, ceded his legacy and accepted a decrease in salary to whereas he prioritized strictly to win a championship, more than protecting his claim to all-time greatness.

So why does the world hate James? Maybe because he wears a Heat uniform and has reneged on maintaining his loyalty. But more seemingly, he continues to reign as the most disliked player in America because of the arrogance he has shown from his giddy Nike ads or simply for abandoning Cleveland in such a heartless fashion. Whatever excuse you find convenient, you hate him. And tonight, he returns to Quicken Loans Arena, his former NBA address where the crowd adored him, pampered him and enriched his popularity.

When James left to manufacture arguably the most unprecedented project of all-time in the NBA, the bitter-hearted fans emotionally reacted by burning expensive No. 23 jerseys, by appearing on the radio locally expressing their enmity and by throwing rocks at his mural in downtown Cleveland, betrayed by his unsettling separation. It was his home growing up, but now home is a hellish territory and he is unwanted in a city he deserted this summer with the Decision.


This heavy talk is turned directly to the peculiar homecoming of James, who electrified Cleveland for seven years and returns as a villain after the town outrageously conveyed petulance and anger for losing its sports hero. No town wishes to lose its sports heroes, but in this worst-case scenario, the world seems to believe the Cleveland faithful will react impolitely or violently.

“I think it’s going to be very emotional for myself,” LeBron said earlier this week. “It’s going to be very emotionally draining.”

In addition, it will be helluva.

As we turn our curiosity towards LeBron ever since hijacking television in a one-hour extravaganza, just so he could announce callously and selfishly that he was joining forces with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami, most of America will be rooting for the Cavaliers and voicing their displeasure towards James, the most hated athlete in America.

His decision prompted an outrage in Cleveland, the kind of anger that can lead to violence or a maniacal plot in his arrival on a night when heavy security will be in attendance to reduce the possibility of a soulless riot in a long-suffering city, still awaiting its first major championship since 1964.

There have been a few incidents in the past for the uncivilized behavior of uncontrollable fans, provoking a riot in 1974 at the Cleveland Indians ballgame when a fan ran onto the field and tried to steal the cap of Texas Rangers outfielder Jeff Burroughs, and fans armed with knives and chains charged the field as well.

But the reality came to light in the 1980’s when Cleveland Browns officials banned fans from bringing dog food into the games after rowdy fans had begin throwing Milk Bones at players. And as the whole world’s eyes gaze at the city tonight, the two-time Most Valuable Player is perceived as the two-faced Traitor. His endearing talent, and the likability given to him from such a young age, pretty much uplifted his fame and easily he emerged into a global superstar.

For now, the Heat experiment has failed, and James’ teammates are considered soft as the world blames him for the misery and early droughts. Already, he has a large influence on the Heat. For instance, if he raises his performance level, then his teammates raises their performance level. If he has an awful night, then his teammates have an awful night. For a while there, this city has percolated in a slew of hate, refusing to put a seven-year marriage out of its misery and has persist in expanding the madness, ready to distastefully serenade unpleasant chants.

With that in mind, the Heat are vulnerable of losing to the Cavs on an emotional night with its sluggish starts and lack of chemistry, but still it’s mostly how James response to an impetuous crowd. This could be the time he rises to the occasion, and suddenly emerge as a leader for a franchise that has fallen drastically under a dull-minded coach Erik Spoelstra, who team president Pat Riley trusts in, while James seems discontent of his inability to inspire his players. It will be interesting to see how James handle the difficulty surrounded by resentful fans who deeply hates him.


This homecoming won’t heal the grievance in Cleveland, infuriated over James’ venture this season to ally with Wade and Bosh. This is exactly the chance to find his swagger and confidence against his former team on possibly the grandest stage of his disheveled career. It figures that he doesn’t want to face the derision of dropping a critical game against his former team, through all the political diatribes which has caused an abominable uproar.

It’s hard to believe the surrealism in such a viral transition. The adulation is lost, the praise is lost, and the sense of likability is lost. So now, he is surrounded by tremendous pressure and could hopefully vanquish his inability to handle the challenge of immense expectations. The actions taken by former teammate Mo Williams following the team’s morning shootaround may have been a clear understanding for what to expect in Cleveland. He was seen wearing a Boston Red Sox jacket and had spoken with reporters.

“It’s almost like your ex-girlfriend coming to your wedding,” Williams said.

For five months, you’ve been buzzing about James homecoming. For five months, he has been seen as a villain, a jilted lover with no loyalty.

Whatever the outcome is, he has an emotional night and obviously his toughest challenge ever. We’re in for a surprise, I guess you can say.

LeBron James Migrates to Paradise but Catches Heat in Angry Cleveland

When the world stared at LeBron James, during his egotistical one-hour television spectacle, he announced that he’s a redefined superstar in South Beach.

The most anticipated free agent class ended in Cleveland with much devastation and agony, with the city ending up suffering indignities greater than The Shot, The Drive and The Fumble.

Even worst, he left his native town in tears, heightening the dismay and anguish of an angry town mourning this emotional departure. Whether you like it or not, he will join forces with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to create the a super-team, a Batman/Robin/Superman combo, unlike any other in NBA history. Whether you like it or not, James has moved on with his future.

But ultimately, he disgusted a majority of the nation, seizing power as the biggest free-agent prize for selfishly hijacking television in an ESPN special. Ever since he divorced his fans and region as a hero, a bond became unglued, in a depressing environment thrilled and driven to embrace the former symbol of sporting aspirations in Ohio.

All year, we'll hear that he’s self-absorbed and narcissistic. Sure, he is. All year, we'll hear that he’s a traitor and an egomaniac. He’s not. If you are one of those describing him as a disloyal villain, you are wrongly dumbfounded and emotional how it all ended so agonizingly.

It’s very fascinating how the same advocates who anointed him have turned against him, calling him a villain after he spent seven years uplifting and rejuvenating a disastrous franchise in Cleveland.

Without him, the Cleveland Cavaliers wouldn’t have been recognized as a top-tier franchise in a town devoid of a major title since 1964, incompetent with all the catastrophes and failures that stained a lustful sports town.

Notice he brought prominence installing a sense of humanity at home, as he considerably tried delivering a title to a championship-driven city.


By emerging on the scene as a gifted savior in a place battered with economic troubles and without much happiness, he satisfied the heart and soul of fans with his breathtaking heroics and individual awards.

Without him, revenue wouldn’t have inflated. Without him, Cleveland wouldn’t have ever rocked. It’s nice to acknowledge that he’s responsible for the Cavs recent NBA Finals appearance, but unfortunately fell short of winning a championship. It’s nice to know that he carried the Cavs to the Eastern Conference Finals during a seven year stint, and nonetheless, is criticized for leaving Cleveland.

No, this doesn’t make him a coward. It makes him seem wise, selfless and focused on collecting rings instead of individual accolades. Now, winning a title is possible in South Beach, joining Wade and Bosh in Miami as the scariest, meanest, mightiest, biggest trio of all-time.

This is what happens whenever a player migrates to paradise, finding an estate on the shores of South Beach, not only to universally extend popularity, but win multiple titles.

He couldn’t care less about fame and ego, now a mature paragon concern of persevering triumph without asking for the sizable dollars. It’s amazing how the cynics who worshipped James as “The Chosen One” are instantly skeptical of him winning with the Heat for bailing out on what they believed was unfinished business.

At this point, Cleveland is a town filled with anger and disappointed with his self-empowering television announcement, but even more so, enraged by his next residential spot, and feels betrayed and hoodwinked by his independent decision.

The moods of fans will expose mixed emotions in any city other than Miami, either feeling bitterly abandoned, either dwelling on signs of arrogance and ego, or either having a friendly motive after he chose the Heat.

Either way, that is, there’s a backlash in a depressing setting for which fans will have grudges and collectively insult their former savior, ridiculing him for his surreal transition, one of the toughest choices that suits James in the future.

There are still disheartening fans in aftermath of burning his No. 23 jerseys in the street as way to release anger and jettison his merchandise, furious about his commitment of loyalty and bailing out on his home town crowd, to chase his first championship.

He needed a change of scenery, obviously sacrificing his legacy and ego by dangerously putting his reputation on the line to contend for a championship and place higher expectations in Miami. Why express sinister resentment without thanking him? Why burn his No. 23 jerseys without hanging the attire as memorabilia?

It’s a real shame the entire city has denounced and abnormally dismissed James of winning a championship, all because he was driven and decided to move on. Most of all, this is a free country, which means he never owed Cleveland notice in advance or a hint of his next location, or another seven years of his career in one town.

To put it simply, he owed the city nothing. If he meant that much to a town, they’d have cheered him wherever he landed, regardless of the egotistical mannerisms of his decision. It’s a city that will bitterly despise James every time he emerges from the visitor’s tunnel in Cleveland, instead of welcoming the star forward with a standing ovation.

This is how the population repays James? No gratitude? No warm receptions? No good luck wishes? No credit?

WOW! Whatever the people of Cleveland believe, he’s apparently not concerned with the pursuit of his popularity, and he’s obviously not concerned with elevating his ego, and he’s certainly not leaving his hometown for financial principles, but respectively for potential attainments.

In fairness, he wasn’t about money by accepting $30 million less in Miami, knowing that he could have asked for more and earned a larger amount in Cleveland, but he refused to settle for money. Across the world, he’s scorned for nationally making a public scene and placing a burden on Cleveland.

From the world’s most adorable athlete to the world’s most disliked, he’s blamed for downsizing jobs and deflating the profit in his hometown and turning his back on them.

But he never turned his back on them. Unlike the typical player, he followed his instincts and went on an organization that suited his opportunities of winning.

But there’s nothing more shocking or shameless than Cavs majority owner Dan Gilbert, who angrily ripped the former star, forgetting that he revived a futile organization as the virtuous leader and brought much joy to a murky region.

What a shame it really is hearing an owner unprofessionally and harshly bash his former star. It was an outlandish message rarely seen from an executive who normally handles situations with positive character.

“As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier,” he wrote in a letter. “This was announced with a several-day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his ‘decision’ unlike anything ever ‘witnessed’ in the history of sports probably the history of entertainment. Clearly, this is bitterly disappointing to all of us. The good news is that the ownership team and the rest of the hard-working, loyal, and driven staff over here at your hometown Cavaliers have not betrayed you nor NEVER will betray you.”

He continued…

“I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE,” Gilbert wrote. “You can take it to the bank.”

Seriously…how does he figure that? There’s a super-team built in Miami, an unprecedented trio in NBA history with the Three Amigos generating a tropical storm in South Beach.


By migrating to Miami, James assembled the most captivating scene all of us have our eyes set on, willing to join Wade and Bosh for the welfare of tasting his first title.

He could win five titles with this supersized unit. It takes reinforcements and reliable tandems or trios to win these days. Never has one superstar done it alone or dominated without contributions. For instance, Kobe Bryant needed Shaquille O’Neal, Tim Duncan needed David Robinson, Magic Johnson needed Kareem Abdul Jabber, Larry Bird needed Robert Parish and Kevin McHale, and the greatest of all-time Michael Jordan needed, ahem, Scottie Pippen and Steve Kerr.

And now, LeBron needs Wade and Bosh.

The Heat fans are pleased to welcome LeBron and are hopeful the lowly franchise will win more than 47 games next season by possibly winning 75 games, shattering the record for the most wins in a season.

If you are wondering how Miami pulled off the most historic trio and landed LeBron, it was the cleverness of Pat Riley, who has assembled productive cores as an executive in the front office. He’s wiser than ever, smarter than ever, and he’s even a smooth persuader of luring superstars to join and establish a cohesive and efficient core.

And LeBron followed the stars to South Beach. It was known as Wade Country, but now it’s known as Three Amigo Country. There’s a party at the beach, as people are enraged and weeping over their loss in Cleveland. Pretty soon, they’ll be somber and stick a pacifier in their mouths, while Miami will cheer loudly and appreciate King James.

LeBron Will Be Free To Move Around The Country, But Where Will He Land?

By midnight, the general public will gather collectively, speculating LeBron James next destination during his free-agency journey as a multitude of franchises implores for his availability and services. Last we heard there were speculations of James signing with the Chicago Bulls, when reportedly sources divulged that a deal was finalized.

Eventually, all of us become curious, even anticipating James to reach a deal in a high-market and valuable franchise in a common town. He downplayed questions regarding his free-agency status and focused on strictly leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA’s biggest spotlight.

It was difficult to tamper against his hometown and a franchise, of course that he deeply supported as a teenager who fostered him as a prominent superstar in the NBA, becoming a hometown savior within an environment that has suffered from grievance and miserable sporting indignities.

With the lingering LeBron-Watch, a fascinating free agent marathon this summer centering all the attention and shining the limelight over James, who is greatly targeted by the Miami Heat in a potential deal, has the potential of building a legitimate powerhouse in South Beach if he mingles with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. It’s quite possible an intelligent deal could transpire when the clock hits midnight, especially when a business is operated aggressively and brilliantly.

The greatest star wants to shine and hoist up multiple championships in the next few year. He’s an essential fragment to the Heat’s rebuilding project in a bottomless free-agency market. Where he plays next season is mysteriously anonymous and unpredictable, but he is theorized to be lured in by architect Pat Riley, the Heat’s general manager who is very optimistic in overhauling futility that has inhibited much realization.

Whatever decision James chooses, he controls the leverage as the attractive megastar in a plentiful free-agent class. As it stands this summer, his next landing-place dictates where an abundant of megastars verbally agrees and eventually finalizes a deal. How people view James, is as a savior when the NBA is entertaining a renaissance age.

In the end, once he becomes a free-agent, all the nonsensical rumors and assumptions will downsize to a minimal. For all the publicity and hearsay, he’ll finally test the market and accept the biggest offer in the making, to silence all the hoopla swirling in the newspaper, on the front page of Internet sites and on the nearest television screen.

There’s one town, in reality, begging for King James—it’s not New York or New Jersey—but it’s Chicago. A city with a gorgeous landscape and passionate sports fanatics waiting for an authentic savior who is priceless in rescuing a perturbed location. At the moment, it’s sensible and benefits in a way, healing the bleak faces and reducing much despair in a community that has seen misfortune over the years, witnessing the biggest sporting travesties the last decade.

Since the end of Michael Jordan’s reign, the Chicago Bulls have diminished miserably, under a turbulent general manager in John Paxson, winning merely one playoff series in 12 years. Every Chicagoan knows the Cubs are an overpaid organization and reeks. Every resident knows the White Sox need to fire the psychotic imbecile Ozzie Guillen. Every local knows the Bears foolishly gambled on a futile Jay Cutler, who's throws into double-coverage raises the tension of the locals willing to sit at Solider Field in the frigid months, witnessing a losing cause.

With all the epic assumptions, he’s the blockbuster name with all teams attempting to bid in the sweepstakes, doing anything possible to improve their franchises. But this is the Bulls sole possession, seemingly a place where he’ll be surrounded with a reliable supporting cast, a blueprint for prevailing in the upcoming seasons and an immense core that he lacked in Cleveland.

After bailing out on James in the postseason, he was driven and had the toughest task, having to conduct the Cavs in a one-sided contest, without getting enough contributions from his grueling teammates. In the meantime, fans are nervously waiting back home, terrified of an emotional departure, abruptly ending the happiest stint that brought bliss to a town the local residents fell in love with for uplifting pertinence. Is he hanging up the FOR SALE SIGN? Absolutely!


He wants to win and other teams want to win. It’s a rarity that a player remains on one team for his entire career because of money and frequent transitions with all the talent exposing terrific balance and resiliency. Wherever he lands, they’ll have to be willing to compromise by given an enormous deal and assembling a solid supporting cast.

If James does leave, he wouldn’t be a traitor or turning against a town that elevated his ego, but the value will decrease and the state will lose tremendous profit. The Cavs ownership will have trouble selling out seats at Quicken Loans Arena and will have difficulty marketing merchandise and player's apparel. Considerably, he’s not selfish or an egomaniac by walking out on his town when he has done all he practically can, and doesn’t owe his hometown residents anything, but is worthy of a championship elsewhere.

These days, a downtown banner in Cleveland overlooks the horizon of the city and reads “Born Here. Raised Here. Plays Here. Stays Here.” The 10-foot story billboard still reads “We Are All Witnesses” a Nike campaign that has apparently been advertised since his grandest arrival. Momentarily, there is silence in a town that has dealt with enough uncertainty and disappointment, witnessing a video that featured Michael Bloomberg pleading heavily for LeBron to come to New York, another potential landing spot in the upcoming weeks.


If he accepts a huge salary, based on whatever team invests the huge bucks, James will likely wind up signing with the franchise that offers the riches. For all we know, as of now, he could very well join with Wade and Bosh in Miami and assemble a singular dynasty or he could establish a career in New York. Keep in mind, his legacy is endangered depending upon where he signs this summer with a franchise that finishes win less in the next few years, while playing in his prime.

Of all the possible candidates he may wear a Bulls uniform and dazzle with a relevant tandem alongside Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah, he may storm from the tunnels wearing a Miami uniform to stand as a forceful duo with Wade and he may look stylish in a Knicks uniform and rejuvenate a lackluster organization in Mike D’Antoni’s up-tempo offense, while sharing the wealth with David Lee and Danilo Gallinari.

But as a proven megastar, James is worthy of earning millions after he’s endorsed and embraced by the league, regularly unleashing Nike commercial ads whether he’s a puppet or Wise LeBron sitting at the dinner table talking with his cones. When he leaves Cleveland, James will definitely become a part of another team's framework and heighten ticket sales for elevating his legacy and mellowing as the global superstar with his unforeseen attributes and mesmerizing talent.

Sure enough, the Ohio native has emotional afterthoughts about departing from his hometown, but the league is a business and the league is his livelihood, which tells us it’s not time to ponder or feel sympathy about leaving his town and supporters behind. If he goes to the Knicks, they’ll have to negotiate and offer James with the richest deal, unless clearing salary cap space was wasteful.

But for some reason, the Knicks have expressed interest in Hawks shooting guard Joe Johnson, despite knowing that James blends in with a fast-pace offense. After all, Donnie Walsh, the Knicks president of basketball operations, intent was to aggressively bid for James in the summer of 2010. There’s an estimated $34.5 million of salary cap space. It was proposed that the Knicks would offer a max contract to James.

As a way to bribe LeBron to stay in Cleveland, the team has erected its facilities and canned Mike Brown, whose peculiar coaching method didn’t reach James’ criteria, crippled the Cavs of advancing pass the Celtics in the postseason.

And not long ago, Danny Ferry resigned as general manager after five seasons, a stunning development to many. To their advantage, of course, owner Dan Gilbert is a smart businessman who is upgrading and revamping the identity in an underachieving franchise, now persuading the King to stay at home.

As it looks, by far, it wouldn’t be a surprise seeing him contend elsewhere.

Comparing LeBron To Peyton Manning and Why He May Stay With The Cavs

A lot of hype has been going around LeBron James lately. Already, they are talking about the future of the New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and the Los Angeles Clippers because they will land superstar small forward LeBron James.

Whoa, hold on there buckaroo. How do we know for sure that James will be leaving?

Yeah yeah, the Cleveland Cavaliers have marked their second straight year where they posted the league-best record but choke in the playoffs. So what?

This often brings me back to the situation in the National Football League: The Indianapolis Colts of the 2000's. They kept winning and winning, but couldn't bring it on in the big show. That's when people often compared Peyton Manning as the next Dan Marino. But Manning had more skill and a higher football IQ and a type of great quarterback we haven't seen for awhile. He was so dominant in the regular season, but he couldn't hold it through to the post-season. He would often times choke to Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.

Which is why I compare LeBron James to the Indianapolis Colts' quarterback. Let's go year-by-year with these guys.

In 1998, Peyton Manning was the first overall pick out of Tennessee. He was drafted by the worst team in league: The Indianapolis Colts. It was a debate between Ryan Leaf and him. As we look back, Manning was the superstar and Leaf was the biggest bust of the decade. The Colts didn't finish well in 1998, posting a 3-13 record, but it marked a bright future for the Colts and their new, young quarterback.

In 2003, LeBron James was looking to be the NBA phenom. He was something the NBA has never seen. Coming out of Akron, Ohio, James didn't even go to college. He was a number one pick from high school. The Cleveland Cavaliers knew they had a star coming with James. They were better off with James than Darko Milicic. When we look back, James is the future of the NBA and Milicic is the biggest bust of the decade like NFL's Ryan Leaf. James would play great in his rookie season, but the Cavs weren't in playoff contention, however, posting a 35-47 record.

Both, however, would continue to improve as both of their years went by. Both had rivalries, too. Peyton Manning had his with Tom Brady. Brady always had been winning the battles for six straight seasons, and getting three Super Bowls out of it while Manning got none. But Manning had his share of many AFC Championship game appearances. LeBron had bit of a one with Kobe Bryant. Bryant would take the charge, though, going to three Finals appearances. One a win, one a loss, and another that is undetermined. James only went to one, but got smoked by the San Antonio Spurs.

As the years went on, Manning's 2004 season turned out to be one of the bests of his career. After coming off an MVP season in 2003, he had a bigger MVP season that year, breaking Dan Marino's record of 48 touchdowns in a season. Manning had 49 as the Colts posted a 12-4 record. However, they lost to Tom Brady and the New England Patriots 20-3 in the Divisional Playoff round. 2005 rolled by for Manning, posting great numbers as the Colts went 14-2. But their streak ended by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the divisional round.

The same thing was happening to LeBron James. After making it to the Finals in the 2006 NBA season, 2007 came by and the Cavaliers were doing great. But it all stopped when the Cavs got downed by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Then 2008-09 and 2009-10 season came. James won MVP and the Cavs were unstoppable in the regular season, like the King himself. But they choked in the playoffs, losing to the Celtics this year and the Magic last year.

Before Manning won his Super Bowl, it was all about statistics. He won a lot of games in the regular season and put up a lot of great numbers. As for the playoffs, before 2006, it just didn't work out. He was a choke artist. He had MVP's, fastest to reach 30,000 yards and all of that, but couldn't get the big one.

Same for LeBron. He had the stats, MVP's, one of the fastest to reach 10,000 points and all of that, but he was a choke artist when it came to the playoffs.

Then 2006 came. The Colts had a terrible defense. It was a struggle. Nobody believed the Colts could do it. But they did. They stopped their rivals in the AFC Championship game versus the New England Patriots and topped it off with a championship win over the Chicago Bears for Manning's first ring. Now when you look at Manning, he is considered the greatest quarterback ever, already. I wouldn't say so. But many consider him better than Brady, now.

Why? Manning never had character issues. Many quarterbacks had character issues. Tom Brady is known a stuck-up jerk off the field. Dan Marino had problems before the NFL along with many other quarterbacks. Brett Favre would never make up his mind and was annoying to some people. But Manning? He never had any character issues and was never selfish. Never. He was an honest man earning his pay.

Along with that, some people say Brady isn't better than Manning is because he whined a lot. Especially during last year's NFL season when he was coming off the year where Bernard Pollard blew out his knee (in which many people thank him for). Also, people never took Brady's 2007 season that big because of all the Spygate troubles. That is why people think Manning is better, too. He earned his ring more and turned receivers who come off a 40 receptions-700 yard season into a 80 reception-1,100 yard season.

It took number 18 nine seasons to win a Super Bowl. And you know what? He never gave up. He never gave up to get that ring. He tried and tried. Every year. People said he choked and he sucked, but he proved them wrong and got the monkey off his back. Now with looking to have the best stats ever for a quarterback (seriously, Brett Favre thinks Manning will beat all of his records and it is possible, easily) and with a couple more rings at hand, Manning can be known as the best quarterback right now and soon to be the best ever. True. Ask anybody.

And that goes the same for LeBron James. And that is why I think James will stay in Cleveland. He will look for inspiration. Manning is a big one. Manning never asked to be traded or anything, because he knows he has the tools to win. James has the tools. Hell, he does. True that. James made it to the NBA Finals with a squad that wasn't as good as he had in 2008 or 2009. Check it.

The Cavaliers have tools bring in guys James wants. The Cavaliers are able to trade Mo Williams for Michael Beasley. And it is possible for them making that deal come true. They are building with a new head coach. Manning was able to fit into it when the Colts made it to the Super Bowl with Jim Caldwell. There's also a possibility that the Cavs can actually clear up cap space and bring in a guy like Chris Bosh or Amare Stoudemire. Maybe even Carlos Boozer.

Cleveland needs a sports hero. And James is the only one. Indiana's last sports hero was Reggie Miller. It was just a basketball place. Now football is stepping in because Peyton Manning made the impossible happen for the Colts. He made the "Dolts" go away. The city of Cleveland sports has a curse. And we all know James has the keys to break that curse.

James knows he wants to stay in Cleveland. He was born an Ohioan. And he wants to stay one. He bleeds Ohio and he can't leave the Cavaliers. He will be leaving his hometown. Because of him, the arena to watch the Cavs is always packed. Same goes for the Colts' with the RCA Dome and the Lucas Oil Stadium. James can bring a title to not only the Cavs, but to the city of Cleveland. And if James does bring home a title, he will be the icon of everything Cleveland. Not a sports icon, but a bigger national icon. The icon of Ohio. The icon of the NBA. And I can bet you when Cleveland wins the NBA Finals, it will be a thousand times more crazier than what happened to New Orleans when the Saints won the Super Bowl. Cleveland will be packed because a sports team finally won a championship.

And if James completes that, people can often consider him as a better player than Kobe. There are rumors James signing a three-year-deal with the Cavs and if he doesn't win the NBA Finals in those three years, he will go on to play for the Brooklyn Nets. And that's all the time LeBron needs to win a championship in Cleveland.

Like Manning, James has great character. The great Michael Jordan had gambling problems and cheated on his wife. But it wasn't all that bad. He will still be considered the greatest ever. And Kobe Bryant also had issues. He was selfish a lot of times, which brought him into trade rumors of going to the Knicks. And I don't want to go into any further detail, because the rest is history with the rape accusations and all of that. Nothing has ever gone bad to James. The only bad thing was when some YouTuber tried to claim that James was a believer of Satan.

The Cavaliers also have the most money to give James. But I don't think James will accept the max deal. I think he will think about the Cavs first. So many Clevelanders are begging for number 23 to stay. Not as many other teams are begging more than Cleveland and the whole state of Ohio. They may seem smaller than all of them, but I think James can create something with himself. All the other teams have greats in their franchise. The Cavs never have than James.

The Cavs can bring what James wants this off-season. Don't be surprised seeing a guy like Joe Johnson, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, or Amare Stoudemire coming to Cleveland.

I know James will get his ring in the next three years. It took James a shorter time than Manning to reach his first championship appearance. It took Manning nine seasons. James? Only five. Entering his eighth season, James can bring home a title to Cleveland. He has three more years, maybe even more, to bring home a title to Cleveland. Then he can move on.

Did Michael Jordan ever quit with the Bulls? Did Dwayne Wade ever quit with the Heat? Then what makes you think James will quit with the Cavaliers? LeBron should look at Peyton Manning for guidance. Barack Obama is even pleading for James to stay. It would be better. Much better.

I could go on and on. But LeBron, if I were you, do this. Take the thee-year-deal. The Cavs will do whatever you want. Trust me. The state of Ohio doesn't want you to leave. The Cavs will get a major superstar this free agency. I can see it. Or at least in a sign-and-trade. Trust me LeBron. This could be the best three years of your life and your best years are waiting. And they are in those next three-to-five years. You haven't entered your prime.

James will win a title in the next three years. And once he does, it's all in the books. It will be just like Manning. He will probably pass Kobe Bryant, maybe pass Jordan. Okay, not Jordan, but he could be considered the second or third best player once he retires.

Do the right thing LeBron. Don't quit yet. Look at Peyton. Look at what you can do with Cleveland. Bringing a title to Cleveland will be much bigger than bringing a title to a team like the Knicks or the Clippers. And if you bring home a trophy for Cleveland, you'll know exactly what I mean.

Don't quit.

LeBron Owes Nothing to Cleveland, But Is Deserving of Title Elsewhere

Every time a big-name free agent is available to test the market or when his season ends woefully and agonizingly, he becomes the biggest curiosity in sports.

There has been much dialogue about Cleveland Cavaliers' star LeBron James, who becomes a free agent July 1. He'll test the market and negotiate with franchises willing to offer riches and more importantly a supporting cast.

If he leaves his hometown and departs to another city, it’s obvious that he desired a change of scenery, riches and/or fame. But understand that James doesn’t owe Cleveland or its fans anything, and has every right to leave his hometown for an opportunity to contend for a title.

By now, you’ve heard all the speculations and possibilities of James becoming a resident in South Beach or Chicago, a pair of high-market cities with flourishing star players.

When a superstar fails to win for a franchise where he posed as an endearing icon and savior, he’ll desperately flee to have an opportunity of winning a title in a town that is equipped to extend greatness. If he has played his final game with the Cavs, the LeBron sweepstakes draws all the attention as he becomes the blockbuster name in the free-agency watch. As the fans wonder where he’ll wind up in the future, Cleveland supporters are pleading for James to stay in a tribute video called “We Are LeBron,” a film produced by Mike Polk, a lifelong Cavs' fan.

Polk amazingly convinced Break Media to reach an agreement on a unique idea.

When the Cavs were eliminated from the postseason by Boston, the video featuring Cleveland celebrities and Ohio Governor Ted Strickland launched on websites.

It’s hard to imagine him returning to his native state this summer after such a collapse. The blow only adds to the devastating crisis that has dismantled a city devoid of celebrating a major championship for over 40 years.

The demise of the Cavaliers may have decided James’ future after the club's inabilities doomed a franchise that never endured triumph.

Because he’s from Akron, Ohio, a community near Cleveland, Lebron’s a hometown hero. Since he bypassed college for the NBA after graduating from high school, James dilated stardom.

In a fan-driven city, where supporters were keen to embrace a noble superstar, a supreme athlete who could excite and amuse a downcast city, LeBron was recognized and valuable in Cleveland. He brought the Cavs optimism, and erased the horrid memories of failures. But now, he could be departing to once again leave agony on the faces of devastated fans who have long-awaited a major championship.

His departure will expand the dismal, making the people weary and disgusted. He’s not only playing the game for the welfare of fans, but for the welfare of occupying a profession in pro sports and capturing multiple titles elsewhere. If he’s serious about winning, he’ll sign with either the Heat or Bulls, two teams that seem coherent. There are many superstars he can possibly unite with, become a local resident and win multiple titles.

It only makes sense if he lands in Miami and declares his citizenship in South Beach, where he’ll be noticed as the top superstar alongside Dwyane Wade, who is an explosive guard with the ability to create in transition and set up plays for James. For years, Heat president Pat Riley has been interested in big-name stars and rebuilding a dynamic team.

There’s no doubt that Riley will enter in the LeBron sweepstakes to negotiate a long-term deal and lure him in. It’s a potential building block by signing James and forms a forceful tandem, probably what would be the greatest guard-forward combination in a long time.

Earlier in the year, there was more speculation that he’ll sign with New York, a franchise in need of a valuable star player. The Knicks president of basketball operations, Donnie Walsh, cleared a large amount of salary cap space to sign a compelling free agent this summer. It’s a waste if the Knicks fail to please LeBron-lovers in New York without wooing or signing him to a huge contract. On Broadway, his legacy will elevate as the fans are excited to sell out Madison Square Garden.

More fittingly, the Bulls are surrounded with young and flourishing stars in Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah—and if you believe in every headline developing in the news, John Calipari could be hired as the next coach to work under turbulent general manager John Paxson.

You cannot count out the New Jersey Nets, a team with emerging talent but very little structure and discipline. It’s a dysfunctional franchise, but his good-friend Jay-Z may toss out the big bucks and convince him to contribute in refurbishing his depleted franchise.

In his effulgent career, he has been compared to Michael Jordan. Yes, the man with six rings and all the expensive and stylish shoes, and the man who led a powerful dynasty by producing triumphant achievements, all with the Bulls during his memorable reign. It’s easy to grasp a sense that he’ll migrate to Chicago and play in the shadows of Jordan, a player he idolized while growing up and develop a unique brand. There’s no question that James is a talented superstar, but has yet ascended his legacy, still empty-handed of a title.

He has all the individual accolades, such as two NBA Most Valuable Player awards, triple-doubles and double-doubles, postseason wins, a lone Finals appearance, but no championships. He has a horrible postseason track record, which is hard to imagine. He’s 2-5 in elimination games, 0-4 on the road and lost in the conference semifinals, and has yet to capitalize on the NBA’s monumental platform with a decisive win.

If he does decide to turn down the Cavs and leave his hometown for the betterment of winning, much nod to James, who‘s more concerned and vehement about protecting his legacy and reputation with a stable franchise and win a long-awaited championship.

For all the significant upgrades, the Cavs still shied from the biggest win in franchise history. LeBron was the savior in a town that believed in the improbable, but was perceived as the probable, until the aging Celtics embarrassed the Cavs by thrashing James and his lethargic and absent-minded supporting cast. It’s quite agonizing that it ended badly, after general manager Danny Ferry assembled a talented unit and owner Dan Gilbert cashed the checks.

He paid Mo Williams, a good shooting guard, Antawn Jamison, who was acquired in a trade, and Shaquille O’Neal, but all stumbled at critical moments in the postseason, putting tremendous pressure on LeBron. For seven years, customers, markers, and fans have created ego and elevated James’ fame, from the brainwashing of Nike puppet ads to the shoes all fans endorses.

As measured and compared to the legendary Jordan, he’s a resemblance of his size, strength and emotional leadership. But he still doesn’t have a ring to relate to Jordan on what it tastes like to win a championship. Apparently, James has to find it elsewhere by emotionally leaving home.

He doesn’t owe the fans anything. He owes himself a championship.

After Dreary Letdown, LeBron James Must Relocate To a New Address

Ever seen a crowd in a petrified town nervous about the status of a gifted athlete, dignified for rejuvenating an insubstantial franchise in his hometown?

The enthusiastic fans are suddenly glancing at reality, with the possibility of LeBron James departing Ohio and signing his signature with a rebuilding team in a high-market city this summer in free agency.

A day doesn’t pass without speculation of James' future within an association of big-name superstars and traditional franchises having the upper advantage because of depth, size, heart, and experience.

The mental state of presumably a devastating ending for James’ regime in Cleveland dooms a beleaguered and embarrassed sports town after a long-lasting calamity absorbs a curse.

When an athlete brainwashes us with Nike ads and puppet commercials and is named NBA’s Most Valuable Player back-to-back, it creates an ego and elevates fame, including an uncertain legacy. Ever since he bypassed college hoops for the pros, he was pampered by his hometown and given the nickname "King”.

He has become the global icon and the worldwide figure, admired for his popularity and creativity in a game he has emerged as the biggest event. His enthralling dunks and distributions of making his teammates more effective symbolizes all things the league advertises.

All of which he’s worshipped more than the average athlete, and has even solidified fame by winning individual awards, but is still devoid of a championship, faltering in critical games and relinquishing at the worst possible time.

So now, the worried people in Cleveland are holding their collective breaths, uneasy and concerned about James’ future.


Suddenly, the global superstar of the Cleveland Cavaliers has become the biggest curiosity in sports. And to think we debated, with much conviction on his next destination, it’s unpredictable where he’ll land come July 1.

Any team can bid, but only a few seem sensible and worth negotiating with. To name a few: Maybe he’ll sign with the Knicks, Heat, Bulls, or even the hapless Nets and be a part of the rebuilding project.

That way he’ll be doing his good friend Jay-Z a favor by representing New Jersey and rejuvenating a franchise once again, even though that would be stepping backwards.

Sometimes we need a change of scenery and he definitely is ready for a change to reduce heart breakers, after falling short each year in the postseason. Once again, his facial expression revealed disappointment and disgust, but this time he hugged and congratulated the Celtics when the buzzer sounded.

He walked towards the tunnel and tossed his headband into the stands, a moment when the world pondered and admittedly were convinced that his future with the Cavs ended.

If there are believers who thinks he’ll leave, Boston fans are among many believing he’ll not return next season. Late in the fourth quarter as time dwindled, the crowd chanted “New York Knicks! New York Knicks!”

It’s only common to believe that James won’t re-sign with the Cavs this summer after an agonizing ending left him distraught in one of the biggest collapses, adding to the nightmarish droughts and deterioration in a town with downcast moments. That was The Shot, The Drive, The Fumble, and The Choke—and now the LeChoke.

Unfair as it seems to point the fingers at LeBron, the fingers must point directly at Mike Brown, whose coaching philosophy descended and failed emphasizing enough energy or urgency this postseason.

He’s definitely a name on the hot seat this offseason. But a week ago, his job security seemed unharmed when the Cavs had a commanding 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series against Boston. Aside from the temporary destruction of Boston, Cleveland dropped three consecutive games by a combined 51 points and abolished in a 94-85 elimination loss in Game Six to the Boston Celtics.

James, who scored 22 points on 36.8 percent shooting, walked out of the interview room reflecting back on a lousy, dreary performance.

From his unpleasant facial expressions, he revealed a furious stare and appeared burnt out of the meltdowns, willing to call it a career with the Cavs and try to surmount to triumph elsewhere. He exposed his own weaknesses when he attempted ill-advised jump shots and missed, but in the series he was forced to take outside and midrange jumpers as the Celtics shut down and trapped the interior with a deeper defensive mindset.

Pathetically, James' squad was horrible defensive-wise and never had an answer for a speedy Rajon Rondo, who harassed the Cavs and dictated the flow fundamentally. Forty-eight days away of becoming a free agent, his availability is valuable to numerous franchises.

He fittingly would be a good addition in Chicago, where he’ll be surrounded with a flowering supporting cast and the talent of Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah.

He could even unite with Dwyane Wade and build a forceful nucleus in South Beach. Or magnetize the business lifestyle and urban cities of New York, becoming the biggest attraction on Broadway and titillate Madison Square Garden.

Better, the Knicks fans have falling in love with James each time he stepped onto the hardwood in the world’s most prestigious venue. Previously, he has awed the fans with his mesmerizing spectacles, while the fans implored that James sign when he’s available. Each time, he was welcomed with warm receptions, and endeared for his spectacular display.

Wherever James ends up, he’ll have to come with urgency and determination unlike his lackluster performance of late.

He rarely commits turnovers, but turned it over nine times for his reckless and mindless muffs with the ball, at times overly dribbling or making risky passes in traffic and near white jerseys. But more staggering was that he carelessly quit on his team and his native town.

He mentally stopped playing and hustling, an uncharacteristic result and relied on his shaky supporting cast instead of demanding the ball and seizing the spotlight in a pivotal game. And it cost the Cavs. Maybe he was really injured after all, feeling the soreness in his damaged elbow.

In Cleveland, the fans are mourning and moistened by the agonizing defeat to Boston.

So, does he leave?

“I’m going to approach this summer with the right mindset,” James said. “With me and my team, we’re going to figure out what’s the best possibility for me. I love the city of Cleveland of course—the city and the fans. It was a disappointing season to say the least, but at the same time we had a great time together. So we’ll see what happens.”

He missed 13 of his 21 field-goal attempts and almost made it a quadruple-double with nine turnovers. As for his legacy, James will solidify his reputation by leaving Cleveland.

There’s many with suspicion as to whether the elbow injury softened his capabilities of playing with energy and toughness in which he wasn’t nearly imposing, but instead left the world in a mystery.

The collapse may force a distraught owner Dan Gilbert to fire Brown and dismiss general manager Danny Ferry. In the offseason, the Cavs will probably upgrade its roster. But for now, the entire town is crestfallen and James may depart in an unhappy ending and leave a city in dismay.

Farewell to the King.

He’s leaving for good.

After Wild Blowout Over Celtics, Cavs Victory Remains Inevitable

In a speechless, cheerless, fatigued venue at downtown Boston, a Nightmare on Causeway Street embodied the worst-case scenario, forging a horror movie in a sporting town known for winning its fair share of titles in pro basketball.

Of the thousands sitting nervously in the stands, who stared in hopes of witnessing the resurgence of the Boston Celtics, observed a massacre when a believable evening turned into a pulverizing beat down.

It’s common to postulate that LeBron James is harmless and certain to botch at any given situation nursing a sore elbow, an injury downsizing his mental mindset to drive as if he’s invincible or limiting his ability to draw contact under the rim and be awarded a three-point opportunity.

The world is obligated to know LeBron’s next destination, if the Cleveland Cavaliers fail to win a title during his reign, just as the world is obsessed with the worldwide icon for his breathtaking exhibits and impact within a professional league of blossoming superstars.

He’s compared to Michael Jordan and wears his jersey No. 23, but what’s unique about James is that he’s a refined sporting figure and embraced globally.

Because he’s precautious about his bruised elbow, then maybe he’s not as effective or electric of dashing to the paint protecting himself of serve damage as it gradually heals, but it’s an understatement to discount James and the Cavs.

Any team can topple another team in one game, but purging them in an entire series is a whole different story.

For the everlasting failures and usual instincts of falling apart in critical situations, LeBron is attempting to win a championship in his hometown, healthy or unhealthy.

In recent years, the Celtics vs. Cavs is a renewal rivalry producing raw blood on the hardwood and could last seven games, depending whether the Celtics can avenge an embarrassing loss and recover to purge any nightmarish afterthoughts of relapsing before a home crowd.

After encountering a 104-86 loss in Game Two to Boston at home, it was vital to win one on the road and take a commanding lead in the series, despite blowing home court advantage.

Very quickly, the Cavs revitalized certainty with every reason to believe they can win a championship and increase a sense of happiness in a town that hasn’t experienced much triumph, but has suffered mockery with all the draining fiascoes smudging sensibility.

As expected, LeBron stepped onto the court with realization and led the Cavs. On this night, he played with heart and energy, demonstrating a crafty and savvy style of play in his arsenal of shots.

The Cavs also relied on their two-time MVP to attack with his body and set up teammates by making incredible passes on most possessions.

They rely more on his talent and upper body strength, in which James is unstoppable in dashing through the lanes and slashing inside to finish on the easy deuce, unless he’s battered with nagging pain of his banged up elbow.

He’s playing through an injury and still strives towards a title as an inestimable superstar embraced heavily in a good-natured town.

Although James has been nixed with a minor injury with prolonged publicity raising a level of concern, he appeared fine amid a limitless farce and reasserted his status Friday night when the powerfully built 6-8, 255-pound forward outplayed Boston single-handedly.

With all the dubious thoughts of James’ injury, it's almost inevitable to dismiss the Cavs, who dismantled the Celtics, 124-95, at the Garden, to hand Boston its worst home loss in playoff history.

So much for shamrocks, victory cigars or seas of green remaining in the stands, when the majority of Celtics’ faithful made their way to the nearest exit and stayed silent for much of the night.

Because of their poor outing, the rowdy fans even serenaded loud and unpleasant boos, disappointed of the staggering letdown and sudden turnaround. It’s too bad there are no refunds.

But no team desires ending the season for an early vacation and a fishing trip with Kenny and Charles, certainly not James and the Cavs, a championship-caliber franchise that is angling for a glorious prize.

They retaliated from a lousy Game Two, avoiding the careless lapses and bounced back with a conscious attitude in attaining its share of deference. His famous elbow injury wasn’t an ill-effect as cynical believers began doubting James' ability to guide the Cavs back to the NBA Finals.

Perhaps, it was misguided headlines when he showed off in a brilliant showpiece, exploding and silencing doubters in a hostile environment with a dazzling performance. He had the swagger to pulverize the Celtics in the conference semifinals, with clear evidence on why he’s the Most Valuable Player.


The world suddenly became curious of his response while battling an injury in the postseason, knowing he’s the superstar of a franchise that relies on his productivity. James scored 21 of his 38 points in the first quarter and summarized a demoralizing defeat, to implant a historical mark.

The Cavs record-setting 59.5 for points and field-goal percentage was the difference in their manhandling over the Celtics, who never had an answer or stood in the face or stopped a vintage James from pestering them.

For three days, he received plenty of rest and practiced without feeling pain in his elbow. On a star-studded evening, he played with emotion and knocked down jumpers without grimacing in pain. He delivered in a critical way and nailed eight of his 10 shots in the first quarter alone.

“We had three days to sit and feel the pressure and then bounce back,” said James. “Rest helped me and we were able to have a complete game.”

During an intense practice Thursday, he was evidently fine without grimacing in agony. He tried out a jump-shooting secession. And he wore a Kobe-like scowl on his face at game time, ready to lead his team to a different outcome unlike the other night when they were massively routed.

“It was a really important game for us; it was my mindset from the jump,” said James. “It started with me and everyone else saw my aggression.”

He was aggressive, indeed, by making 14 of 22 shots for driving to the rim. He also grabbed eight rebounds, seven assists and two blocks to finish off a well-rounded night. As it seems, the Cavs are unbeatable whenever his teammates compile points on the scoreboards.

Such as Antawn Jamison, who had a stellar game as a Cavalier, had 20 points with 12 rebounds and won the skirmish with Kevin Garnett. It was as if he was an undersized forward standing in the middle, when Jamison outhustled and frustrated KG.

By the end of the night, he settled for 19 points on 8 of 11 shooting, but more stunningly, he was held merely to four rebounds and a lone assist.

Finally, there was some life from Shaquille O’Neal, instead of producing rap lyrics. Though he’s aging, he produced 12 points with nine rebounds to add to the lopsided rebounding margin of 45-30 and points in the paint by a differential of 50-32.

Did you believe in LeBron? I did.

The scene reminded us not to discount the Cavs. It’s inevitable to wave farewell and rule out Cleveland. And with LeBron anything is possible, especially when his royal court comes to James' aid.

LeBron James Needs to Avoid Careless Flaws or Cleveland Doesn't Rock

So the raucous crowd was in attendance, at one of the noisiest venues to witness a prominent super star amaze them with dramatic showcases.

There were genuine moments provoking the crowd to roar wildly at the dignified King James when the Cleveland Cavaliers star stood at mid-court hoisting the MVP trophy.

In a town he calls home and adores dearly, the atmosphere at an energetic locale rocked and swung the white towels in honor of LeBron James’ second consecutive Most Valuable Player award bestowed to him.

But it’s really interesting how quick the rumbling noise suddenly went silent and the crowd went speechless, without the entertaining puppet putting on a dramatic, breathtaking show.

As the season comes to a closure, the melodrama is heard often with James' contract expiring at the end of the season.

He’ll be available to test the market, when he becomes a free-agent.

It’s too early to suggest his next destination or whether he’ll wear a Cleveland uniform for the rest of his career.

But if the Cavs fall short of winning a championship, it seems practical that he’ll depart to contend elsewhere.

For now, he’s worried about a legitimate pursuit in the postseason, getting the Cavs to return to championship form and pull it off for a town with much sporting infirmities, and plights that has left an entire city in misery.

All of their major sporting franchises are helpless, but the closer one aiming towards capturing exultation are the Cavs.

The objective is to erase sporting indignities of The Shot, The Drive, The Fumble and The Choke, an excruciating trend leaving an enthusiastic community in shambles.

After a party/reunion took place at the gym on the University of Akron campus, where he spoke humbly from a podium sending all his thanks and acknowledgment for winning the MVP award, he energized and alarmed a franchise and supporters to believe that this is the year to capture a title.

He’s a valuable forward. He’s a matured model. He’s the face of a franchise with tremendous respectability.

But the Cavs weren’t as believable or soothing to long-awaited supporters when they never played with a fierce drive. Instead, Cleveland played as if they were confounded and motionless in pummeling the Boston Celtics.

This was an indicator that the Cavs need contributions from its role players and bench, as James acts as the facilitator and involves his teammates in a fast-break possession or with sterling ball movement to make it easier to loft a mid-range jumper or drive inside for a smooth layup.

Based on the performance in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Cavs were unbeatable and unstoppable in the Eastern Conference.

As it stands now, the Cavs are unprotected if they fluctuate against the Celtics, an aging and unhealthy team with legions of downsides.

If Cleveland starts to panic, it’s normal to have a level of concern about the Cavs, who have stumbled before against the Celtics and were sent home after a devastating loss.

And if the Cavs approach a series or game careless and awkwardly, they’ll lose instantly, not necessarily to Boston, but to the upcoming opponent or even a team from the Western Conference in the NBA Finals.

Every game at this point must be played like it’s the last contest to ever be played.

It’s obvious that James is a bit unhealthy, feeling the discomfort in his right elbow. He suffered a sprained and bruised elbow in the last series and was forced to attempt a left-handed free throw, in which he was limited and had trouble shooting from the outside.

He had difficulty controlling the ball worried about aggravating his elbow and preferred to protect his health, rather than driving the lanes with his powerfully built body to draw the foul and be awarded free throw attempts.

The Celtics outshined and demoralized the Cavs in Game 2, humiliating them on their home floor.

They never had a response and the loudness of fans quieted down, becoming speechless as Boston controlled the rhythm and stole a pivotal game in a hostile environment.

Even though the Cavs nearly crawled back from a large deficit, the Celtics held on to win 104-86 and tied the series at 1-1.

With the decisive win, Boston took home-court advantage, traveling home with higher pride and certainty, and at a building where the Cavaliers have struggled mightily.

For once, the Celtics were scoring at will and obtained contributions from role players. But it doesn’t happen just offensively.

And a weakness was the defensive sketchiness that unraveled the Celtics in shutting down the middle and restrained opponents from driving to the rim, especially when Kevin Garnett was absent sitting on the sideline or serving a suspension.

It happened ironically, finding their groove at the right time and making proper adjustments to turn it into a competitive bout.

For each team, it may actually become a challenging and compelling series, lasting at least six games with a few dramatic finishes.

Realistically, the Cavs are too athletic, hungry, potent and good. And honestly, the Celtics are too old, worn down and sluggish.

In the wake of his MVP honors, LeBron scored 24 points, almost six points below his season scoring average and more than eight fewer than his average in the Cavs’ first six postseason games.

It’s not the Chicago Bulls, a franchise that was faced with turbulence of eliminating a balanced core.

In other words, this isn’t the Bulls, but it’s the Celtics, a team that has experienced a title and much triumph by smoking victory cigars, watching confetti fall from the ceilings and celebrating with the fans on Causeway Street in downtown Boston.

Matters turned uglier when Cleveland fans booed and left early, frustrated and angry with the flaky performance on a night they merely lost their third game at home in their past 18 playoff games.

This made coach Mike Brown cringe, dropping the worst home playoff home loss since 2006.

“Tonight was real simple—they kicked our behind from the beginning,” he said angrily. “And we did not fight back until late. We’ve got to decide that we’re going to take the fight to them and take these games. Nothing is going to be given to us at all.”

James struggled early and never found his rhythm.

He missed shots and stumbled on abysmal shooting, only finishing on 7 for 15 with five turnovers, while his sidekick and tandem Mo Williams didn’t drain shots through the nets, finishing an awful 1 for 9 and settled for four points.

As for the Cavs, they only shot 40 percent from the field. And once again, everyone vanished. They were absent as it was easy to forget about Delonte West, who had four points in 31 minutes.

The latest in the news is that the Cavs are mortal, unless the bench and LeBron revive in time to take command of the best-of-seven series.

That’s hard to imagine when Cleveland had one of its best seasons, convincing the world that they are the hungriest and toughest out in the postseason.

Why wasn’t LeBron infuriated?

“We know we didn’t play well, that third quarter definitely was one of the worst quarters we had this year, offensively and defensively,” James said.

“But you look at it, at the end of day, the series is tied 1-1. These are two really good teams, and we’re looking forward to Game Three.”

The toughness was seen from the Celtics.

What we do know about the C’s is that they need outside shooting from the scorching Ray Allen, who scored 22 points.

For whatever reason, everyone is focused and turns all attention to KG, since he’s the inspirational leader and aggressor on defense. But Rajon Rondo out shined all players in a much-needed game, with 19 assists as an explosive floor general.

For now, the Cavs are still likable to hoist the glamorous prize in June.

The nightmarish blowout won’t last forever, perhaps with a win in Boston. That shifts the momentum, but more than ever, it erases the dreadful memories and restores vitality making all supporters believe it’s the Cavs year.

If Cleveland wins, it rocks. If not, it would be an absolute failure.

Mature, Unselfish, Simply Amazing: LeBron Is The True Face of The NBA

LeBron James entered the podium as a very humbled man. Walking up to the stage, LeBron James accepted his second-ever MVP trophy, as it was also his second consecutive one as well.

LeBron, expressing tenderness, showed himself that he was a mature man. Even at a youthful age of 25, James acted as if he was a intelligent, courteous 30-year-old. James has yet to win a championship, but didn't it take Mr. Airness a while, too?

James shared his achievement with his friends and family. He thanked his mom, who had been raising him at the budding age of 16. Or he thanked his two uncles or his high school teammates.

He thanked his kids, who he talked about in front of the packed audience, all listening to what he says. The Cavaliers are the sports team of the city. And James has made it happen.

James brought up his teammates onto the stage towards the ending of his diffident speech. Many players fooled around, notably guard Delonte West; showing off his phone and record James' back. Center Shaquille O'Neal was probably the most prominent teammate there.

What James showed there showed how great of a guy he is. After answering the questions to the media, James brought his sons onto the stage. His son had a problem and James didn't care. He took care of him in front of the camera. It just shows how much of a family man he is.

Most guys would just do something so much more different to that. What I saw in that press conference, it just shows that the NBA needs more guys like him. A great player, great guy in person, great family man, and one hell of a human-being.

So unselfish, so mature, so amazing. LeBron James showed why he should be the face of the National Basketball Association. Many would disagree because of guys like Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade, who have rings. But James will get his rings.

And no disrespect to Kobe and D-Wade, but if LeBron switched teams with any of them, he'll most probably make the most impact. Ask anybody. James shows character. Dwyane Wade does as well but LeBron is more of a better player.

Kobe has shown selfishness before. And you can't start making a fuss because many people know it is in fact true. He rattted out Shaq. And now Shaq is with a player just as good, or better. His name is LeBron James.

Since coming into the league, James has made more effect than any other player. Another reason of showing James' unselfishness is that he gave us a clue: He will be staying in Cleveland no matter what happens. He'll stay. He said Akron, Ohio will forever be his home.

So I guess this could make impact of this year's free agency. Get ready to pick Bosh or somebody else Knicks, Clippers, etc. James has so many qualities as a player and a normal human being. He's a fantastic person.

And the new, true face of the NBA.

King James is Most Valuable, But for Cleveland Cavaliers It's Now or Never

There were times when a rambunctious crowd erupted a crazy frenzy at the Quicken Loans Arena in downtown Cleveland, and witnessed LeBron James sprinkled baby powder onto his hands and tossed it skyward to thrill a sellout capacity crowd.

So there are the Cleveland Cavaliers in their finest season, generating enough buzz to pose as the next NBA franchise to be crowned champs. If the loyal population in an avid sporting town is still inquisitive to know exactly where LeBron may end up next season when he becomes a free-agent this summer, his status of testing the market is trivial.

Expected to alleviate town indignities, the Cavs are the nearest major franchise in a cursed sports town to revoke humiliation that has dragged down soul for its dismal culture.

It’s wrongly inappropriate to dismiss the Cavs, a franchise led by more than a puppet, but a global superstar in James. He’s expected to be named the MVP for the second straight season, with leading a deep supporting cast and having a large impact on the Cavs optimistic pursuit to the NBA Finals.

Need I remind you that the town rocks, zests to taste a legitimate prize in June? At last, there’s much more to witness than rock stars performing at a nearby venue or touring the luxurious sites of the Rock and Roll museum, observing photos and memorabilia of the Beatles or Rolling Stones.

It’s the time of year when much blabbering and attention is given to a fascinating basketball franchise, with the excitement and captivation of LeBron’s intense performances. Ever since he was the overall selection in the NBA Draft years ago, he was absorbed heavily as a savior and earned praise for rejuvenating a horrid franchise.

In his domain, he has improved ticket sales and lifted the attendance level at a spacious venue, suddenly a noisy and active environment where the swinging towels and flags are a notable trademark. No disrespect to the Boston Celtics, but it’s now or never for the Cavs to prove worthy of winning a title and satisfy a long-awaited crowd.

Although this series should be exciting, Cleveland is more athletic, hungrier, earnest and younger than the battered Celtics. Although this series should be an intense battle and last seven games, they’ll prevail in a sudden death to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

What happened Saturday was an indicator that the Cavs are delivering a sense of normalcy in the postseason, translating their usual trends seen so often during the regular-season. It’s simply a great team at home, fueled on the crowd’s intensity and enthusiasm, which mostly results in a charming win.

If anything, it doesn’t take much to deliver a knock out punch against the vulnerable and beatable Boston. When the Cavs dispatched the Chicago Bulls in the first round, enough to irritate Joakim Noah, whose animosity encouraged them to pummel an unbalanced and tumultuous team, the Cavs were resilient and savvy at knocking out the Bulls.

The elements of well-coaching and intrepidity is a common philosophy to excel at the highest level in a competitive postseason. The unique possibility of the Cavs purging in the second-round is hard to imagine, fortunate to take on Boston.

It certainly is less daunting to fall to the Celtics, but fittingly, it’s more convenient to thrive and advance deeper into the postseason for a feasible meeting with the Lakers in the Finals. After all, it’s a unanimous bout the world desires witnessing, in which the man with the scowl would collide with the man with the tomahawk dunks.

More specifically, the dream matchup we are dying to see is Kobe and LeBron clash on the same court in what would be an epic classic, and even silence the obnoxious debates on which player is more prominent and worthy of MVP notability.


Right now, it’s no one other than LeBron, the noble superstar who’s hours before receiving his second straight MVP award. The delivery and leadership alone declares James as the front-runner with his versatility and energy to appease respectable fans of honoring his powerful influence.

He’s the reigning Most Valuable Player, but hails in an indigenous environment attached to ineffectual and inspiring star players. He symbolizes the heart of a beloved sports town, bowing to King James when he has a wonderful scoring night. All the people in attendance gratefully chants “MVP! MVP!"

Nearly each game this season, he was the clutch performer in the fourth quarter and pleaded for the ball to close out a wild contest on a positive note. What superstar doesn’t take over in the late minutes?

As a native growing up in Akron, Ohio, he always dreamed of playing for his hometown team, a franchise he grew up rooting for and now in good position of winning a title as an NBA star at home. He accepts the challenge, likes dazzling in the huge moments and feels comfortable with the ball in his hands.

It’s not that he distrust in his teammates, but plays the leadership role when it’s necessary, and if he intends to excel on his agenda before he test the market, he knows the consequence of controlling the tempo while aiming to win a title.

Maybe it would bribe the All-Star forward to wear a Cavs uniform until he retires, urging the organization to sign LeBron to the richest deal in NBA history before New York pursues and offers James millions.


For now, he’s strictly focused on winning a championship and celebrating with his hometown friends, teammates and family. Before the series, the masses worried about his sore elbow, but relieved tension when he reported that it felt better and had loosened. He also said that he didn’t put pressure on it during the off days since he was forced to attempt a left-handed free throw Tuesday to close out the series against the Bulls.

The worldwide icon walked off the court in Game One against Boston calmed, after pulling off a convincing comeback to salvage a 101-93 win Saturday. If the supporting cast has a brilliant and productive run without vanishing, the Cavs can win the championship. But he’ll need contributions from all the role players, while he adds the finishing touches and afloat in the Eastern Conference with the commodities of a sizable frontcourt.

More substantially, the Cavs have tremendous depth in the frontcourt with Anderson Varejao and J.J. Hickson. Now that coach Mike Brown realize he’s getting production out of Hickson, he’ll probably make some adjustments and juggle the starting lineup around, giving him more quality minutes.

A lot of fans are pleased with his toughness and work ethic underneath the rim, as well as Varejao, both attacking and creating trouble by smothering Paul Pierce.

Like the average individual, we all age. During the offseason, the Cavs acquired Shaquille O’Neal, the once-dominant center whose phrase is freestyle rapping, but also is clobbering the middle with his oversized athleticism. It seems he’s slower in running up and down the floor, but still blocks shots and throws down dunks when he’s inside the interior.

It’s conceivable to think that the Cavs are orchestrated by James’ coercion. The scoreboard read that he scored 35 points on 24 field goal attempts, with seven assists to finish the night. As always, he’s an expertise of the game, he’s a world-class athlete and he’s the Most Valuable Player, not only in the league, but as a member of the Cavs.

He’s the remarkable King James.

NBA Playoffs 2010: Stop Dreaming...Lakers-Cavs Won't Happen This Year

I keep getting sick of this conversation over and over again.

It won't happen this season, that's for sure. You should know by now what I am talking about here.

Lakers-Cavaliers: NBA Finals. Who will come out on top: LeBron James or Kobe Bryant? Oh, just cut it out people.

Yes, yes, I know it will seem like the ultimate matchup but we've been hearing about this for the past two-to-three seasons. Don't you think you should stop? It won't happen this season.

For one, the Cavaliers probably might not even make the playoffs at all. They've been choking lately for the past few years in the playoffs and they may very well face Orlando in the Eastern Conference Finals again, and lose there.

Or it could happen to the Lakers. It may seem weird for Los Angeles to make it to the Finals three times in a row. I don't think it'll happen, but hey, it can be possible.

But they've been pretty darn good this season so I won't be surprised.

However, it just seems so unlikely for a Lakers-Cavaliers matchup. Many expected it last season during the 2009 NBA Playoffs. It seemed like it was destined. Everyone was acting like it will happen for sure.

But it never did.

The Cavs got beaten by the Magic. They got stunned. Here they are as the best in the East and they didn't make it. I was shocked.

That's why I won't be taking the Cavs as serious. Okay, probably I do because I like them there but so do a bunch of other people out there. And there are bunch of people who keep having the stupid fantasies of LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant in the Finals.

It could happen some other year. But no, definitely not this year.

So cut the talk about it.

It's not gonna happen.

Keep dreaming.

It will happen soon, but just not this year.

If All Else Fails

The Cavaliers now have gotten everything LeBron wants…pretty much. LeBron wanted Amare Stoudemire in the trade deadline. The Cavs were close to getting him, but they got someone who is better and would not want to call for the ball and just play basketball. He’ll be assigned of what he’s asked. That’s Antwan Jamison.

Now let’s go back further. LeBron needed a sidekick. Neither Delonte West or Mo Williams were working out well to his suiting. Ben Wallace was playing like his age. It was just horrible. Wally Sczerbiak was struggling. In the offseason, the Cavs made many changes and acquired Shaquille O’Neal. They also brought in former Harlem Globetrotter, JaMario Moon.

Now LeBron has everything he wants. He has a good lineup and along with that, he has guys stepping up this year. J.J. Hickson has been a powerful contributor at forward and has been in many dunk highlights. Daniel Gibson is looking good, too, along with his streaky shooting from behind the three-point line.

With all this, the Cavs are destined for the NBA Finals. They are destined to be champions. For so many years, the city of Cleveland has suffered pain, annoyance, and frustration. Browns can’t win, Indians can but they suck in the playoffs. And they’re the Cavs. They’ve been playing some good ball since LeBron came and have been to the Finals, but got their butts kicked by San Antonio there. Cleveland has a curse. LeBron is the sports hero of this place. In fact, the messiah. Everyone counts on him for him to win. This may be the year.

But hey, we all don’t know that. In my opinion, I think the Cavs will make it to the Finals. They have to. This is their year. LeBron deserves his first ring. He’s been playing too hard to have this deserved to him. Heck, now you got people hating on him, making all this stupid stuff up about him being Satanic and all that. None of it’s true. People want him to win the Finals.

LeBron has everything. He has a big guy that can easily rebound and everyone afraid to try to fight against him (enter Shaq). They have a guy who’s not selfish, can shoot from three, and can take advantage of his big size (enter Antwan Jamison), and LeBron is the biggest piece to the puzzle.

But, what if nothing is destined for Cleveland. What if they turn out to be a first-round exit? What if they fail in the semifinals? Conference finals? Heck, if they make it to the Finals, what if they lose there? LeBron can’t go through another loss in the NBA Finals. 0-2 with Cleveland there? No, no, it can’t be. But hey, it can happen easily.The Cavs were the number one team last year and they lost to the Magic in the Conference Finals. Look what has happened to other teams like the Mavericks who were a number one team. How about those Pacers in like 2003?

It is possible. All of you have heard those rumors about LeBron going to teams like the Knicks, Nets, Clippers, Heat, etc. in 2010 Free Agency. If all else fails this year, these rumors will be heating up and could eventually turn out to be true. Why? LeBron has been here since 2003. He has brought everything. With all the weapons this season, he has to win the Finals. And if not, it’s over with him in Cleveland in my opinion. The Cavs could give LeBron all the cash, but then some weapons on the Cleveland squad may go away. That can be the problem.

Yes, yes, the Knicks have gone through some problems. But what makes us know that he will even go to the Knicks. He can. The Knicks can pay LeBron all sorts of money and LeBron may accept. Al Harrington might stay, and so can Tracy McGrady. David Lee can stay also, I can see. The Knicks did better than expected this year. They can go beyond that next season if they acquired a player such as LeBron.

I can see the Nets. LeBron has been linked with Jay-Z and with the star rapper owning a part of the Nets franchise, I won’t be surprised seeing a jersey being stitched out “James” on the back with a front side that says “New Jersey.” Represent. With Chris Douglas-Roberts, Brook Lopez, and Devin Harris, it’ll all be good. And they can get LeBron in a trade, too. They can use their first-round draft-pick and maybe a player or two for LeBron. I wouldn’t be surprised if this came out true.

The Clippers can also be an idea. Eric Gordon is a good weapon along with Chris Kaman and others. Steve Blake and Travis Outlaw were recently added to the team. LeBron can be the centerpiece. The Heat was another thing I’ve seen, too. But the Heat was will be more of less chance of landing. Two megastars sharing the ball on the same court? They have to be able to share the ball a lot, share minutes. It’ll all be hectic.

The Knicks, Clippers, and Nets are all good options. But hey, that’s if the Cavs won’t make it to the championship. Who knows what will happen?

But if all else fails, don’t be too surprised of a Knicks, Nets, Clippers, or any other team uniform having a LeBron James jersey ready for him coming the 2010 season.