Media Day: LeBron James Speaks
October 1, 2008
Yesterday was Media Day for the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James spoke to the media on how happy he was about the addition of point guard Mo Williams and how confident he was about the his teams chances for a championship run in 2008/2009. He also spoke on how this summers Olympic experience has made him a better player and a better leader. Most importantly in my mind, Lebron spoke on his status as a Cavalier and the constant gossip about his desire to play elsewhere.
"I've never given no indication that I was leaving Cleveland . I never gave any indication that I didn't like being here, every time I'm asked that question. I love being here. I love playing in front of these fans. My family is here. I grew up thirty miles from here. I've never given any indication that I did not like playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers."
James did not state that he definitely plans on re-signing with the Cavs in 2010, but why would he? That's still two years away and a lot of things can happen from now until then. Not even the most diehard of Cavalier fans can fault him for keeping his options open. The bottom line is that money, exposure, and endorsements will not be an issue for James in 2010. Winning is what will keep LeBron in Cleveland . Owner Dan Gilbert knows this and he has gone on record stating that he's willing to do what it takes to bring a NBA Championship to the city of Cleveland .
I for one believe in Dan Gilbert. He is far and away Cleveland 's best professional sports team owner. He seems to be the only one who cares. Money is not an issue with this owner and that certainly is refreshing. Winning is what Mr. Gilbert is all about and that's a far cry from the other two sorry owners in that city.
Will Lebron's comments on Monday stop the National Sports Media from it's non-stop assesment that the city of Cleveland is not worthy of a superstar the magnitude of James? I doubt it. The likes of Stephan A. Smith and those other knuckleheads over at ESPN will only give up their "Lebron to New York " quest when James signs on that "Wine and Gold" dotted line in 2010.
