2014 NBA free agency is officially underway in my book. LeBron James has announced his return home to Cleveland where he plans to right his wrongs. I would be lying if I said I was originally for James returning to his hometown. I thought he would be delusional to go back, especially after going to four straight NBA Finals with the Miami Heat. What I realize now that I didn't realize a couple days ago is that James going back to Cleveland is much bigger than basketball. James says in Sports Illustrated, "I feel my calling here goes above basketball. I have a responsibility to lead." It's obvious that James feels he owes this much to the city on and off the court, not to mention the desire of wanting to raise his own family in his hometown. Of course we can never forget "The Decision" four years ago when James broke Cleveland's heart in front of the world. This go round LeBron took a completely different approach. His decision was sent to Sports Illustrated in which he wrote an essay explaining his decision. No interviews, guaranteed championships, or press conferences for James, which shows his maturity and how he's learned from his mistakes four years ago.
It now seems as though King James has now resurrected his image amongst many in the basketball world. Those who lost respect for LeBron's decision to go to Miami seem to have now gained that respect back in his return to Cleveland. Owner Dan Gilbert and James have met and settled their differences from the past and it feels that all is "FOR6IVEN." The fans in Cleveland are excited about the return of their hometown hero, and who can blame them. They've done nothing but suffered since LeBron's departure. The Cavs have already gone to a 4/1 favorites to win the NBA Championship with the acquisition of James, while Miami took a dive to 50/1 favorites. Whether you're a LeBron fan or not, one thing you can't deny is his impact on the game of basketball, and this free agency has shown just that. In my eyes Cleveland was the only team James would've left the Heat for without receiving backlash. I'll be the first to say I'm not sure if the Cavs will win a NBA Championship right away, but one thing is for certain. The King is back and the city of Cleveland is on the map once again!
