LeBron James faced massive backlash after an ESPN show featuring his decision to move from Clevland to Miami Heat televised.
LeBron James has been subject to constant criticism since his early days in basketball. And now, 20 years later, the situation is still the same. James catches the public eye with every little decision or moves he makes. But one must know where the whole era of criticism began. Let’s rewind a decade back to when James was just 25. The 25-year-old made a “decision” that changed the structure of the NBA in a literal sense.
In 2010, LeBron James made a decision that became one of the most controversial decisions in NBA history. As a free agent, James announced on national television that he would be leaving his home team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, to join the Miami Heat. The decision, which came to be known as “The Decision,” was heavily criticized, with many accusing James of being selfish and only concerned with winning championships. Years later, James addressed the aftermath of the show.
LeBron James Reveals What Prompted Him To Televise “The Decision”
When ESPN aired “The Decision” special show, LeBron James became a lightning rod for criticism. After this, many accused him of betraying his hometown and abandoning his loyalty to Cleveland. The Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert, wrote an open letter to fans wherein he described James’ decision as a selfish, heartless, callous and cowardly betrayal. But years later, James addressed the issues and said if given a chance, he would have handled the move a little differently.
Speaking on “The Decision” controversy, LeBron James recently addressed that he was young and wanted to please everyone around him. He wanted the fans to like him as an athlete. Furthermore, the veteran affirmed that to date, he does not regret his decision to move from Cleveland to Miami as it was the much-needed push to his career. With seven years in his hometown, LeBron could not win even a single championship title. On the other hand, with the Heat, James registered his first championship win in just the second year.
King James Becomes The Leading Point Scorer In NBA
While his image may be of an arrogant, self-centred dude, LeBron James’ on-court achievements are something one cannot disregard. Just a few weeks ago, King James scripted history by becoming the leading point scorer in the history of the NBA. He surpassed Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s record of 38,387 career points during the game against Thunder.
Ultimately, “The Decision” may have been a misstep in James’ public image, but it did not define him as a player or a person. He has continued to be one of the best basketball players, and his impact off the court is arguably even more significant than his achievements on it. Being a 38-year-old competing at the highest level while being the leading scorer of a team like the Lakers is surely not everyone’s cup of tea. Lastly, James might not be the GOAT of basketball for some people, but he sure is one of the best to ever exist.
