Lebron James, the probable heir-apparent to Basketball legend Michael “Air” Jordan, disappointed many of his fans, sportswriters, and even some national news anchors with his surprising decision to play for the Miami Heat. The GM of his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, accused Lebron of being narcissistic and selfish, but Lebron was to the city of Cleveland perhaps like what Jesus is to the town of Nazareth and to many of his hometown fans, his decision to play elsewhere is seen as an act of betrayal, much like that of Judas Iscariot. But is all of this criticism toward the NBA Superstar justified? After at least 7 seasons playing in the NBA without a Championship ring, shouldn’t he try to position himself to be on a contending team to win the NBA finals crown and ring, instead of playing another season at Cleveland out of a misplaced sense of duty or loyalty? And besides all of this, hasn’t Lebron been enough of a CASH COW to the city of Cleveland, to the tune of upwards of 100 million dollars throughout his professional basketball career?
For Miami, it is ‘Dancing in the Streets’ and in Cleveland, it is “Crying in the Streets” along with a much greatly reduced FIRESALE on Lebron James sports memorabilia. It must be remembered, however, that just because King James will join Dwayne Wade on the Heat’s roster, it doesn’t necessarily mean that this DREAM TEAM will win their Division, let alone the NBA Finals Championship. It also has to do with team chemistry and putting egos in check because it took some time for Michael Jordan and Scotty Pippen of the Chicago Bulls to combine their unique talents into a nearly unbeatable dynasty. As it stands right now, Lebron James is about as popular as Tiger Woods and it will be interesting to see whether or not this story continues to capture the public’s interest, or will Lindsay Lohan’s self-destructive travails again take center-stage next on the tabloid agenda?
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
July 14, 2010
pbks@hotmail.com
