The world reacts to LeBron James' return to Cleveland
After holding the NBA hostage as he weighed his options, causing fans, fellow free agents and team GM's come to a standstill while they waited on his decision, LeBron James announced his return to Cleveland on Friday, causing an Internet firestorm with reactions from fans, media personalities and even fellow players. Here's a sampling of the best reactions to LeBron's return to the Cavaliers, announced simultaneously on Sports Illustrated as well as James' Instagram account.
For their part, NBA players who commented on the decision appreciated LeBron's commitment to his home town.
Good move by @KingJames. #Respect
— Paul Millsap (@Paulmillsap4) July 11, 2014
Congrats LBJ...loyal guy going home!
— Jodie Meeks (@Jmeeks20) July 11, 2014
Welcome back bro. Your city awaits you. @KingJames
— Tristan Thompson (@RealTristan13) July 11, 2014
Welcome back @KingJames #GoCavs
— Matthew Dellavedova (@matthewdelly) July 11, 2014
Minnesota's Ricky Rubio took a different direction with his reaction.
Well he is not coming to Minnesota 😔
— Ricky Rubio (@rickyrubio9) July 11, 2014
Current NBA players weren't the only voices involved with the league that commented on James' move to Cleveland, with both Dan Gilbert and Micky Arison taking time to comment on the decision.
Welcome Home @kingjames. I am excited for the fans and people of Cleveland and Ohio. No fans and people deserve a winner more than them.....
— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) July 11, 2014
My 8-year-old: "Daddy, does this mean I can finally wear my Lebron jersey, again?"...Yes it does, son. Yes it does!
— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) July 11, 2014
I am shocked & disappointed in today's news. However I will never forget what Lebron brought us for 4 years. Thanks for memories @KingJames
— Micky Arison (@MickyArison) July 11, 2014
While media personalities stressed the impact LeBron's move to Cleveland could have on the team's playoff chances, fans were quick to point out that the move signaled a shift in fortunes for both Cleveland and Miami as cities, with fans in Cleveland understandably excited.
LeBron going to Cleveland is victory for all rust belt cities. He shows us the bond with home is stronger than allure of destination city.
— Niko Tamurian (@NikoTamurian) July 11, 2014
In the end, Miami's a more awesome city with LeBron living in it. And for that reason, this is pretty unfortunate. Good luck in Cleveland.
— Camron Ghorbi (@CamronGhorbi) July 11, 2014
Just came home from work to find out LeBron is going back to Cleveland. Wow. Never been a huge fan, but the city of Cleveland deserves this
— Tyler Horn (@TyHo24) July 11, 2014
Best of luck to LeBron James. Thank you for everything you have done for the city of Miami and the Miami Heat. You are appreciated.
— J-Nasty (@BeigeWarrior) July 11, 2014