Last year, I wrote an article about Lebron James. It was a story of triumph against all odds. The public backlash, the expectations, fulfilling his destiny and taking his rightful place as the best player in the league. They won early. They celebrated by shadowboxing. Then they crumbled. He faded from the picture. He ran from the spotlight. He watched the trophy he desired awarded to his opponents on his on floor. It's been a long, hot summer, a short season and an eventful spring. Now here we are. Back at one.
Lebron never called himself "King". He never compared himself to Micheal Jordan, Magic Johnson or Oscar Robinson. He didn't ask his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers to draft him. He has accepted criticism and deflected praise. He bragged about winning multiple rings and failed. He's been humbled. No other professional athlete has endured the public scrutiny he has for NOT winning his sports richest prize. His talent makes us expect more, demand the impossible and ignore the obvious....
Lebron plays for love. Not for money, fame or glory. He wants to be remembered, not for highlights, sneakers or tweets, but for winning. For being the best at what he does. The boy who never went to college has grown into the man some love to hate. He is envied, but he is also adored.
On June 12th, 2012, we will begin chapter 3 of his saga towards immortality. 2 trips to the Finals. 2 losses. Oklahoma City are phenomenal. They are young and hungry. Most believe they will present the biggest challenge for Lebron this spring. In reality, they are merely co-stars in a narrative that begins and ends with Lebron James. Its his story, his battle, his time.