NBA Free Agency 2014: Recapping a Hectic Day

Mar 18, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; A Cleveland Cavaliers fan holds a sign referring to LeBron James (not pictured) in the fourth quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavaliers lost 111-90. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron to Cleveland

You couldn’t write up a better story than this if you were Martin Scorsese.

“I’m ready to accept the challenge. I’m coming home” – LeBron James

There was no “Decision” this time, ripping the hearts of a city in front of millions. In an elegant manner, James crafted a letter announcing he’s “coming home”, thoughtfully explaining his decisions to do so. It’s not often we see athletes put their values ahead of finances, at least in terms of someone as big as James has been since walking into the NBA. The limelight was there for #6 in Miami. And on top of a lifestyle that many would take less to play in/for, there was a collective whose track record had been tested. Pat Riley proved he could build a championship contender. Erik Spoelstra proved to be the guy that could lead a championship contender. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh proved to be the supporting cast that could lift a superstar to the highest point possible in basketball.

Everything James wanted four years ago remained and he chose a situation of uncertainty. As he stated in his letter, Cleveland isn’t ready yet, even with the best talent basketball has seen since Jordan.

But one thing is for sure: they’re a hell of a lot closer than they were four years ago.