Lebron James Receives Heroic Welcome in Lakers’ Narrow Win over Cavaliers

LeBron James with the Cleveland Cavaliers in May 2018. Photo by Canadian Press/REX/Shutterstock (9656137i)

Lebron James marked his first return to Cleveland since leaving for the Lakers in July with 32 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists as the Lakers beat the Cavaliers 109-105. However, Wednesday’s highlight was the reception James from fans whom just eight years ago treated him like a villain.

During the first-quarter timeout, the 33-year-old raised his hands and clasped them as he appreciated the standing ovation and cheers he got from the Cavaliers fans. A video played, highlighting James’ greatest performances in the last few years.

At the top of the highlights was Lebron’s 2016 Game 7 block against Andre Iguodala that helped Cleveland won the NBA championship. The video also showed the player shed tears after receiving the Larry O’Brien Trophy and a footage of the player open his ‘I Promise School’ for children at risk.

Eight Years Ago

In other words, Wednesday was the contrast of Dec. 2, 2010, when James’ return to Cleveland while playing for the Miami Heat had the fans jeer and boo him so hard that some in the arena said they would never wish to be in such an environment again.

On Wednesday, the crowd acted as though Lebron was part of Cleveland. And despite losing the game, no one dared express hatred toward James.

Of course, Lebron noticed the difference in his reception this time compared to eight years ago, saying the crowd had learned from that moment.

“We’re all different,” James said. “It’s all about growth and we had to learn from that moment eight years ago, so we’ll leave the past in the past and focus on the present and see what happens in the future.”