Wednesday, July 7, 2010

LeBron James, Supreme Ruler of the Sports World

Who here has heard of LeBron "King" James?

My guess is that anyone who knows someone who knows basketball has heard about the 20-something basketball sensation.  The only reason why he has not captured space on the tabloids is because there has not been a marital scandal like Kobe's moment of infamy.

Yet he seems to have a mind-blowingly strong choke hold on the basketball world.  This year, several A-list players became free-agents.  For the layman, that means they are individual players who have completed their contracts with their previous team and are available to sign with another team.  They announced that they might have a Summit of Stars, where, according to sources, they would discuss their professional goals and determine the future power balance of NBA teams.  This apparently did not happen.

Sports fans have since waited on the edge of their seats to hear who the most highly-touted NBA player will choose to play for next season.

He will announce his decision Thursday.

It seems that LeBron and his entourage have been milking this opportunity for all it's worth.  Almost the point of nausea, in my opinion.  Granted he is a talented player.  But he was extremely disappointing in the NBA playoffs.  My bracket was ruined when he played poorly against Boston, who then went on to face-off against the Lakers in the 2010 Finals.

But every aspiring basketball franchise has been throwing ridiculous salary offers, business deals, and more at this one individual.  Some even went to great lengths to clear space in their salary caps to afford this player.

LeBron is predicted to be one of the most successful players in NBA history.  Akin to Michael Jordan or more.  The difference, in my opinion, between James and Jordan is that Jordan didn't hog the spotlight.  He allowed attention, but didn't work to hype himself.  He let his skills speak for himself.  That's why I think he remains as a legend.

Even though he has a ridiculous moustache right now.

As to where LeBron will end up, Cleveland seems to have the best chance.  Money, plus he doesn't have to move.  And we all know how inconvenient moves are.

But we'll see on Thursday if I am right.

Until next time...