LeBron James blog

Barkley questions LeBron

2012-01-12T21:19:00.000+01:00

Fresh off his appearance on "Saturday Night Live," Charles Barkley changed mediums Wednesday, but continued with a familiar theme: LeBron James as passive superstar.
Asked on Chicago's "Waddle & Silvy Show" about the Heat forward failing to even attempt a single shot in the fourth quarter of Tuesday's overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors, Barkley said it was just more of the same.

"I think LeBron James' personality is he just defers," he told the ESPN radio affiliate.

Barkley said it was no surprise that when Dwyane Wade returned from a three-game absence due to a bruised left foot, James' scoring total went down.

"He went from scoring 30 points a game last week when Dwyane was out to when Dwyane came back, he stepped back a little bit," Barkley said. "I tell people, LeBron James is a great, great player. But I think he's just one of those nice guys, 'Well Dwyane's back, I'm going to defer to him.'

"That's all it could be. To not take a shot . . .

"My personal opinion is he just doesn't have an aggressive personality."

Barkley said it simply might be who LeBron is.

"You saw when Dwyane was out, LeBron had like monster games," Barkley said, with James named NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week each of the first two weeks of the season, even while missing a game last week due to a sprained left ankle. "He almost averaged a triple-double.

"He's a really nice guy. I've said that before. LeBron James is just a really nice guy."

James said following the loss to the Warriors that he simply was playing as a facilitator, praising the open looks the Heat got for the likes of Mario Chalmers.

LeBron James to play in Rudy Gay's charity game at DeSoto Civic Center

2011-11-06T18:47:00.003+01:00

LeBron James awoke Friday morning in a charitable mood.That was good news for the Mid-South because the Miami Heat star committed to play in Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay's charity game Tuesday night at the DeSoto Civic Center.
In a Twitter conversation, James asked what time the game began. Gay told James the event tips off at 7:30 p.m.
"Ok cool!" James replied. "Figuring out travel plans now! I'm in homie."
And like that, the closest this area will ever come to putting on an NBA-caliber All-Star game added more star power.
"It comes down to my relationship with the guys," Gay said about putting together the exhibition game. "And the endorsements I have really helped."
Game officials said nearly 700 tickets were sold within the first hour of James' promise to play. More than 2,000 tickets had been sold as of noon Friday. The DeSoto Civic Center holds 9,000 for basketball.
Organizers expect increased tickets sales this weekend and a brisk walk-up on game day.
Also scheduled to play are Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, John Wall, Tyreke Evans, Ronnie Brewer, Anthony Morrow, Corey Maggette, Kyle Lowry, Jarrett Jack, Mareese Speights and Nate Robinson.
Gay's Griz teammates Zach Randolph, O.J. Mayo, Tony Allen and Josh Selby as well as Memphis basketball legend Penny Hardaway also are scheduled to play.
Gay is waiting to hear from Carmelo Anthony, Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry.
All seats are $30.
Proceeds will benefit the Flight 22 Foundation, Gay's non-profit organization that raises funds for childhood education.

LeBron James new Nike commercial: LeBron rise

2010-11-17T10:47:00.000+01:00

This isn't about what LeBron James has done, or hasn't done. This is about the difference between the expectations others may have of him versus the expectations he has of himself. What should he do? The answer is a question.

LeBron James back on court, good to go against Hornets

2010-11-05T19:20:00.000+01:00

Miami Heat forward LeBron James returned to practice Friday and is expected to be in the starting lineup tonight against the New Orleans Hornets at New Orleans Arena.

James sat out Thursday's practice because of a bruised right shin he suffered against the New Jersey Nets on Sunday. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he was held out for precautionary reasons, citing the fact James needed rest with the team also playing Saturday at AmericanAirlines Arena, against the Nets.

"He went through the whole shootaround," Spoelstra said. "He's doing better. He's ready to play. Again, if we really needed him and it wasn't a back-to-back, he could've practiced yesterday."

LeBron James son picture!

2010-10-09T14:50:00.000+02:00

LeBron James makes big point as focus of Miami Heat's offense

2010-10-06T16:46:00.002+02:00

Even with Carlos Arroyo and Mario Chalmers on the court, the Heat turned to LeBron James as its primary ball-handler after Dwyane Wade was injured.

Carlos Arroyo might have acted the part of point guard during the Heat's 105-89 preseason victory over the Pistons on Tuesday night, routinely dribbling down the court and running the offense.
But his presence couldn't disguise the truth. Although Arroyo was introduced as the Heat's starting point guard, the team's primary ball-handler turned out to be LeBron James.
Making his preseason debut for the Heat, James was the team's offensive catalyst, finishing with 18 points and four assists in 26 minutes, mostly in the first and second quarters.
``I can't defer,'' James said. ``I'm never in the defer mentality. I'm always in attack mode.''
But James didn't initially start the game in the playmaking role. In the first three minutes of the first quarter, he occasionally was the recipient of some passes that came from Arroyo and Dwyane Wade.
But once Wade sustained a strained right hamstring that ended his night, coach Erik Spoelstra had to alter his plans and make James the focal point of his offense.
``That's what we want,'' Spoelstra said of James' role. ``We want him to feel comfortable. He's a two-time MVP and we don't want to reinvent his game or make him do things that he wasn't comfortable with or wouldn't shot his greatness.''
As a result of that strategy, Arroyo continued to handle the ball but quickly passed it to James on most possessions.
And James rewarded Spoelstra and Arroyo for their confidence, getting 16 of the team's 24 points in the first quarter.
``I think he'll only be better with two guys that can do that particularly against a good defensive team,'' Spoelstra said. ``He wasn't necessarily the point guard when he was handling. On the break he is dynamic. That is a unique talent -- to be able to move that fast make decisions and handle the ball at that speed.''
James also showcased his pinpoint passing ability that was a trademark of his seven seasons in Cleveland. With three minutes left in the first quarter, James elicited cheers from the crowd at AmericanAirlines Arena when he faked a pass to the wing and sent a no-look pass inside to Chris Bosh, who finished with a dunk.
James also saw exclusive minutes as the team's primary ball-handler. During the waning possessions of the first two quarters, James manned the point, even with Arroyo and Mario Chalmers on the court.
Arroyo and Chalmers benefited from James' versatility. Toward the end of the first half, James drew attention while driving the lane before he passed back to Chalmers, who drained an open three-pointer.
Arroyo also converted his opportunities with James on the court, making 4 of 6 shots to finish with 10 points.
``It makes your focus a lot different [with James],'' Arroyo said. ``You have to know when that ball is coming and wait for your pass and make that open shot.
``He knows how to make the right play at the right time.''

LeBron James brushes off latest criticisms

2010-10-04T17:25:00.001+02:00

LeBron James doesn't understand why he continues to be a target for criticism by some in the league, but the Heat forward said Saturday he doesn't spend much time worrying about it.

After the Heat wrapped up its final training camp practice Saturday, James responded to another round of criticism from Hall of Fame forward and TNT analyst Charles Barkley.

On Friday, Barkley launched his latest swipe at James when he said suggested on a Philadelphia radio station that James was off-base for saying that race might have played a role in the backlash he received for his decision to leave Cleveland.

James announced his decision to sign with the Heat on July 8 during an hour-long ESPN broadcast. Barkley has consistently criticized James, and said during an interview Friday, ``just when you think it couldn't get any stupider, it gets more stupid.''

James said he had no previous friction with Barkley and doesn't know why the former player keeps taking shots.

``You have to ask Charles. I have no idea,'' James said Saturday. ``You can't stop what people are going to say about you. You're going to have people comment on your game. You're going to have people comment on you, personally. At the end of the day, if they don't actually know you, or know about you, then you don't look too far into it.''

Even with James now in training camp and having distanced himself from a summer filled with scrutiny, he still can't get away from critics. It seems the comments that came from former players such as Barkley, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan have affected James the most.

``Have you seen me every downplay anybody?'' James asked reporters. ``Anytime somebody asks me about future Hall of Famers -- guys in the game, all I do is praise guys. We're all in this together. But when they ask a question about LeBron, it's always the other side. But it won't change me as a person.''

FUTURE CAMPING

After taking the Heat out of South Florida for training camp for the first time in franchise history, coach Erik Spoelstra said things went so well he may consider it again.

The Heat held eight practices in five days, and also participated in activities with troops at Hurlburt Field and Eglin Air Force Base. After Saturday's practice, the team attended a barbecue on the base and will have breakfast with troops Sunday before returning to Miami.

``I don't know if you can measure it -- how much meaning it has, but I like it,'' Spoelstra said. ``All the meals they have together, the bus rides, all the extra time you don't necessarily get if you're at home. It's a way for our guys to really get to know each other and bond. What that translates to in wins on the court? I don't know. But we're definitely a closer group after five days of doing this.''

INJURY UPDATE

Guards Eddie House and Mario Chalmers returned to practice Saturday after missing time Friday with injuries.

House was held out of both Friday sessions, including that night's scrimmage with soreness in his surgically repaired left shoulder. Chalmers sat out the second half of Friday's scrimmage with a sore ankle he jammed Friday.

Spoelstra said there were no additional injury concerns. The Heat will resume practice Monday in preparation for Tuesday night's preseason opener against the Detroit Pistons at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra enjoys Dwyane Wade-LeBron James matchup

2010-10-02T13:20:00.004+02:00

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra wasn't exactly subtle when he described Thursday what it has been like to watch LeBron James and Dwyane Wade face one another in practice.
``They're like two colossal titans going at it,'' Spoelstra said. ``No one is backing down.''
Those ultracompetitive moments between James and Wade on the court have been the highlights of Miami's training camp over the past few days. On Friday, the intensity is expected to increase a few more notches when the Heat holds its first ``open'' game-like scrimmage.
The 6 p.m. session will be broadcast by NBA TV, and the scrimmage will be played in front of soldiers stationed at Hurlburt Field and nearby Eglin Air Force Base. Spoelstra said James and Wade will spend part of the scrimmage playing on the same team but also will be split up at other times and face one another.
``Time will be starting and stopping,'' Spoelstra said of the controlled scrimmage. ``But I know guys have been looking forward to getting out [and playing]. What I've noticed in five practices is the idea of moving the ball and playing unselfish. That's not something we have to stress.''
With the Heat opening the preseason Tuesday against Detroit, Wade and James soon will be headaches for opposing teams. But for now, they enjoy sharpening their skills against one another daily.
``For one, we want our teams to win,'' James said. ``We do whatever it takes to get that edge. We hate to lose, especially to each other. I think you all saw that when Cleveland went against Miami. And we don't want to lose to each other here. This is picking up our teammates.''
Before coming to Miami, James said he never had a teammate who could match his intensity and talent on the court every day in practice. Wade said the only other time he experienced that dynamic was in his 2003-04 rookie season, going against Caron Butler in early Heat workouts.
``When I came in, I had a challenge with Caron, but he went out early with knee surgery,'' Wade said. ``Eddie [Jones] was a little older, so he wasn't trying to battle with me. But me and LeBron, we push each other and make each other better.''
Wade said the two don't keep score in practice battles.
``Right now, we're just trying to get it all together,'' Wade said.
"I'm not really saying, ‘I've got one up on you or you've got one up on me.' I know I've (had to) run more after practice than LeBron."

INSPIRATION
Growing into his role as the latest potentially dominant big man for the Heat, power forward Chris Bosh met Thursday with Heat great legend Alonzo Mourning about expectations.
Mourning, the Heat's vice president for player programs, has attended practices during training camp.
"That's what he was brought back to this team to do - to relate to us," Bosh said of Mourning. "The best part about it is he's been a big man and he has a [championship] ring. I'm one of the two."
James said just seeing Mourning on the sideline has provided inspiration.
"Zo is a true warrior of this organization," James said Thursday. "We all know the story about his kidney and how he battled that and fought through it. Any time you look over at him, you always can say, 'Well, I can do it just one more time, I can give it just one more push.' ''

AGELESS WONDER
Spoelstra has been impressed with the conditioning level of his players. That especially has been the case with forward Juwan Howard.
``I wanted to ask him the other day if he was 27, not 37,'' Spoelstra said. ``He's kept himself in great shape.''

LeBron James is going to the Miami Heat

2010-07-08T20:41:00.001+02:00

The decision is in. LeBron James is going to the Miami Heat.
UPDATE at 10:07 ET: Time for the signoff, and a happy ending from LeBron. He reminds the audience that all the proceeds from the sponsorship spots that were sold for tonight's show will go to the Boy's and Girls' Clubs of Cleveland, Akron, Miami, Chicago, New York and Miami. Says LeBron: "This is an unbelievable venture for myself . . . This is great, also for the kids. The kids are our future . . . One day I might have another LeBron, maybe." The University of Phoenix also says it's good for a $500,000 donation and five scholarships.
UPDATE at 10:03 ET: LeBron, says this has been in the works for awhile, and that playing on the Olympic team with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh played a big role. "I think it was something in the making . . . The fact we all signed the same deal a few years ago (and became free agents at the same time). Now, it's like a dream come true . . . I think the friendship has been there from day one."
UPDATE at 9:58 ET: LeBron, on the fact Mario Chalmers is wearing his No. 6 already for the Heat: "I think I'll give Mario a call and see if we can work something out."
UPDATE at 9:52 ET: ESPN goes to commercial, but with this tease -- that there's another announcement coming from LeBron before the show ends.
UPDATE at 9:51 ET: LeBron, on his reaction to Michael Wilbon telling him that some people in Cleveland already are burning his jersey: "I can't get involved in that. One thing I didn't want to do was make an emotional decision. I wanted to do what was best for Lebron James and make him happy . . . This is a business and I had seven great years in Cleveland and hopefully the fans will understand, but maybe they won't."
UPDATE at 9:48 ET: LeBron, on his expectations for the coming season: "What do I expect? I expect to win. I expect us to get better every day . . . At the end of the day all our minds are winning an NBA championship."
UPDATE at 9:46 ET: LeBron on the terms of the contract: "The numbers are not finalized ... All three of us are going to take less money, because we wanted to play alongside each other . . . It's not about getting the max deal. If it was I would have stayed in Cleveland."
UPDATE at 9:43 ET: LeBron on meeting with Pat Riley: "He's great . . . Pat has been there. He's coached a winning championship multiple times . . . He understands what it takes to coach a championship team and he's going to do everything it takes to make we sure we compete for a championship, for multiple years."
UPDATE at 9:40 ET: LeBron, on what it will be like to go back to Cleveland and play there: "I know we're going to have to go back there twice a year and hopefully the fans will be respectful, but I don't expect them to be . . . It's a lot of mixed emotions, because of what I was able to build there from being a 17-year-old kid to being a 25-year-old man."
UPDATE at 9:36 ET: Instant analysis time.
The Decision is in and the winner of the LeBron James sweepstakes, as was rumored all day long, is the Miami Heat. (Which means Cleveland got KO'd, and the Knicks, Nets, Bulls and Clippers took a TKO.)
LeBron, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh become the NBA's newest Big Three. They don't have a big man of note to patrol the paint, but they have an abundance of All-Star talent. They also have three members of the USA's gold medal-winning team from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and the guys who were the No. 1, No. 4 and No. 5 picks in the 203 NBA draft.
This ends LeBron's free agent drama, but sets in motion a whole new set of questions. Among them:

After all this buildup and hype, isn't it incumbent upon LeBron to get his first NBA championship ring next season? If the Heat don't win the title, LeBron becomes the biggest name in sport to have never won the big one.

Will Miami put out the welcome mat for walk-ons? With three superstars getting hefty salaries, will Pat Riley have enough cash left over to fill out a roster that can go the distance?

Speaking of Riley, will he leave the front office and head back to the bench to coach? That will be the speculation if this Heat team slumps ever so slightly at any point during the season. Current coach Erik Spoelstra is going to be looking over his shoulder all season long. Especially so with what happened to Stan Van Gundy when he "resigned" in 2005 and made way for Riley to return and coach the Heat to the 2006 NBA title.

And is Miami now really the favorite next season? Is the Heat better than the Lakers team that just won a repeat title and has Phil Jackson coaching and Kobe Bryant scoring at will? As good as the LeBron-Wade-Bosh troika looks, can it handle Pau Gasol in the lane and withstand the defense of Ron Artest in a Finals showdown? Well, we guess that's what the 2010-11 season will be all about.

UPDATE at 9:31: LeBron, explaining leaving Cleveland: "This is tough. You feel like you let a lot of people down."
Also: "I never wanted to leave Cleveland, and my heart will always be in that area."
He also said it's not so much about leaving, but rather, "It's about joining forces with the other two guys. (Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.) In a perfect world I would have like to stay."
UPDATE at 9:28 ET: LeBron is going to the Miami Heat. Said LeBron: "I'm going to take my talents to South Beach and I'm going to the Miami Heat. I feel like this is going to be the best opportunity to win, and not just this season, but in multiple years."
UPDATE at 9:25 ET: LeBron says he didn't decide until today, and that a conversation with his mother played a major part. But still hasn't said who.
UPDATE at 9:19 ET: Another commercial break, but LeBron is in a chair on stage, opposite Jim Gray. And Stuart Scott did just promise we will know the decision in "just a few minutes." Hang in. It's almost over. We think.
UPDATE at 9:17 ET: Moooo. They are milking this cow. Running clips of LeBron talking about how "this is a business." The ESPN crew keeps taking a vote, and everyone is expecting Miami. Unanimous for the Heat.
UPDATE at 9:12 ET: So much for LeBron giving the word early on. We're on commercial break, and have yet to hear a word from LeBron.
UPDATE at 9:07 ET: LeBron is in place on stage, but so far the show has only had hype and highlight clips from the ESPN crew.
UPDATE at 8:54 ET: LeBron has arrived at the Boy's and Girl's Club in Greenwich, Conn., so everything appears on schedule.
Here's what else we know so far:

Extra police are on duty at LeBron's Cleveland-area home, just in case Cavalier fans don't take the news well.

If LeBron bails on Cleveland, there are going to be some ugly comparisons to Art Modell.

The New York Knicks seem to have given up hope on landing LeBron.

Us Magazine says LeBron has set up a weekend celebration in Miami.

Already in line to share LeBron's millions is a man who has filed a lawsuit, claiming to be his father.

LeBron James new Miami house?

2010-07-06T11:35:00.000+02:00

All that talk of collusion regarding LeBron James and the Miami Heat cannot be correct, correct? NYT's Howard Beck writes, Collusion by Big 3? N.B.A. Says Not Likely. Can't be true, right?

Then explain how the Casuarina Concourse Coral Gables home that James is rumored to be blowing half his contract on, the house Pat Riley once owned, the home that Alan Potamkin put on the market a while ago...
went off the market on July 01, 2010?

Here is the original description of the $49.5 million dollar home:

One-of-A-Kind breathtaking 8BD/11BA open bay waterfront estate situated on the finest lot in gated exclusive Gables Estates!This 20,088 SF grandeur home has 880 ft on water & sits on 3.6 acres w/150 ft dock to accommodate 150ft yacht.Private Guest Suite w/lighted tennis ct & courtyard on its own acre.3 Suites w/full baths,Upstairs Master Suite w/full Gym,Billiard and Media room are just a few of the delights.Luitron lighting & 12 camera security system thru-out this estate!Please call for private viewing! $49,500,000.00

If Zillow is correct then something stinks. But it isn't the kitchen or the gym. They're awesome. And even if Zillow is off by a few days - that's an awfully quick purchase of a 50 million dollar home...

LeBron James' Mother Gloria's Alleged Affair with Delonte West May Have Changed the Course of NBA History

2010-05-21T10:29:00.000+02:00

The sports world is blowing up with a rumor that LeBron James' poor performance last week against the Boston Celtics can be blamed on mommy issues -- more specifically, mommy-sleeping-with-a-teammate issues. Word is that the Cleveland Cavaliers star found out that his 41-year-old mother, Gloria, had been having an affair with 26-year-old Delonte West just before game time, and some are predicting the upset will push him to leave the team.
However, the gossip remains just that and the Jameses have yet to make any comment on it. Just looking at the story as pure folklore, though, it's pretty fascinating -- the betrayal by a man who is supposed to be, literally, on your side, the resulting emasculation and, hello, inability to perform. It's almost Shakespearean. Then there is the element of female sexuality as both generative (she's his mother!) and destructive (she ruined his game!). Add the age difference between James and her supposed lover -- cougar alert! -- and you've got pure tabloid gold. Unfortunately, it looks like this story won't be going away any time soon.

James took notice of Evans early on

2009-12-28T12:38:00.002+01:00

These days all the basketball prodigies seem to know each other early on. So it was no surprise that Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James knows Tyreke Evans.

James, the reigning NBA MVP, has known Evans since the Kings' star rookie was in the eighth grade.

And like many of Evans' opponents this season, James had plenty of good things to say about Evans.

"I just love the way he plays the game," James said. "He always played ahead, meaning when he was in the eighth grade he played with the high school kids. I can remember those times."

Evans' maturity on the floor and willingness to learn are two of the qualities that have helped him win over his teammates and coaches.

James noticed that, even before Evans was a full-fledged high school superstar, he showed a desire to learn more about the game.

"Every time he came to my basketball camp that I had in my hometown (Akron, Ohio) he was always attentive in workouts and things like that," James said. "I was happy to see him go on to (the University of) Memphis and have a successful one year. Now he's doing a great job."

He's baq – Pregame introductions made it obvious many haven't forgotten the roleShaquille O'Neal played in denying the Kings a chance to win an NBA championship earlier this decade.

O'Neal and his Lakers eliminated the Kings in three consecutive postseasons en route to three NBA titles.

O'Neal was greeted by a chorus of boos during pregrame introductions, while James heard a lot of cheers when announced.

O'Neal isn't the focus of the Cavaliers' offense, but that doesn't mean the Kings didn't expect to have a tough time dealing with him.

As Kings reserve Ime Udoka noted, running into O'Neal while he's setting a screen isn't exactly easy.

"I played with Shaq in L.A. (during the 2003-04 season) so I've practiced against that and seen that," Udoka said. "You've just go to maneuver your way around try not to get hit solid. Shaq's a big guy, big enough to where you're guarding LeBron, you've got maneuver around those (big) guys to keep contact with LeBron."

Same old question – During his pregame media session, James was asked about returning to Arco Arena where he made his NBA debut to start the 2003-04 season.

He joked about being asked that question – again – since he is now in his seventh season.

"It was a great moment for me," James said. "Something I'd dreamed about my whole life, being a part of the NBA. And every time you come back into this building, I guess you remember that night."

A nation watches – Being the first Israeli-born player in NBA history was bound to attract plenty of attention for Kings rookie Omri Casspi

The solid start to Casspi's NBA career isn't going unnoticed in his homeland.

Drama queen role fit for King James

2009-11-17T16:59:00.000+01:00

Perhaps a Nike representative whispered into the ear of LeBron James and told him that all this talk of his impending free agency comes across as being disrespectful to his teammates and to the Cavaliers organization.

Other than the Witnesses living in the Cleveland region, no one is apt to be in a rush to buy shoes from an out-of-touch narcissist.

Whatever the deal, the narcissist finally - and thankfully - decided that enough is enough with his free agency obsession last week.

His teammates know too much already. They know he was all gushy on his last visit in Manhattan, where the Knicks are clearing salary cap space to make room for him. They know he is big buddies with Jay-Z, the rap mogul who has a minority ownership stake in the Nets. And they know James and Dwyane Wade have discussed uniting as a tandem.

Long before the calendar turns to July 1, 2010, though, James has more urgent matters to handle, namely an interminable regular season, the challenge of the postseason and an attempt to maximize the production of the aging Shaquille O'Neal.

"Honestly, you know, this free agency talk is getting old," James said before the Cavaliers played the Magic last week. "You know, it's getting old. I'm going to stop. I think tonight will probably be the last time I answer any more free agent questions until the offseason. I think I owe it to my teammates. I owe it to myself. It's just getting old."

If it is getting old, it is only because James has encouraged and reveled in the speculation. It is only because James is looking forward to being feted like a king in the cities he plans to visit in the offseason. He sees himself as King James, after all.

But James is more drama queen than King James. He is an adulation junkie. Amid the flashing of cameras, he wants to walk across a red carpet with flower petals strewn about it.

All this incessant talk degrades his teammates and devalues the task at hand, which is the business of winning games.

Perhaps James caught one of his teammates rolling his eyes after hearing him discuss anew his free agency, for he spent several minutes deconstructing the topic for the umpteenth time before deciding it was inappropriate in the midst of a season.

"I'm focusing on this season, and this is going to be a really good season for us," James said. "I don't want to have any more distractions to my teammates, to my organization, to my family. This will be the last time I answer a free agent question for the rest of the year."

We are left to hope he sticks to his vow.

But do not be surprised if James, in a moment of self-indulgence, neglects the promise and talks wistfully of July 1 yet again.

It is all about James, in case you did not know.

It is his world, and you should be thankful that you are allowed to live in it.

When he speaks, he expects the world to take notes and respond accordingly.

He has instructed David Stern and the NBA to retire No. 23 in honor of Michael Jordan.

In conjunction with his edict, James said he will not wear No. 23 next season and perhaps will change to No. 6, which is comical if you know the history of the NBA.

No. 6 was worn by the game's greatest winner, Bill Russell.

Russell claimed 11 championships in 13 seasons, two as a player-coach, which dwarfs Jordan's six championships.

But who is keeping count? James certainly isn't.

"I don't think anyone in the NBA should be wearing No. 23," he told TNT's Craig Sager.

If pressed, his employers would say it is a fine idea, too.

They do not want to offend his highness.

They either have read or watched the same self-absorbed interviews as everyone else and can only hope James is not as eager as he sounds about July 1.

An 0-2 start is a wake-up call for Shaquille O'Neal and Cavaliers

2009-11-04T16:54:00.000+01:00

Shaq's arrival changes the dynamic for Cleveland, which now plays even slower and, apparently, is easier to defend -- not an ideal situation in LeBron James' walk year. Everywhere else, no matter what happens, the sun comes up the next morning, but not in Cleveland, where the skies wept after the hated Celtics messed up Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James' debut.

You remember that preseason consensus that James wasn't going anywhere?

Looks like it's time for a new consensus.

This just in: NBA sources say James narrows list of teams he'll consider as a free agent if the Cavaliers tank to 15!

Actually, I made that up to get a jump on the 12 ESPN pundits. Of course, for me as well as for them, if any part of it comes true, I had it first.

Actually, the morning after the opener in Cleveland was wet and dark because it rained. Even if people couldn't see it, the sun came up there, too, presumably.

Unfortunately, that night the Cavaliers were torched in Toronto, where the Raptors spread them out and made them look like traffic cones. When Coach Mike Brown tried the O'Neal-Zydrunas Ilgauskas tandem -- 14 feet worth of slow-reacting big men -- so much traffic whizzed around them, it looked like they needed a Boy Scout to help them cross a busy street.

Of course, the Cavaliers saw a slow start coming before they opened, noting it was a long season, etc.

It is, and this should work, maybe 55 wins' worth, which wouldn't be a disaster. It would just feel like one.

If O'Neal has lost his old explosion, he never lost his old aura. Even with Shaq at 37, expectations still bounce off the ceiling.

"Shaq" and "dominant" just seem to go together, as when James noted after O'Neal's 10-point opener, "He was dominant at times."

Holy bat guano! James should have seen O'Neal in his prime, when it was like trying to lasso Godzilla.

Having belatedly discovered conditioning, O'Neal has dialed back the years but he never regained that explosion that set him off from anyone his size, or would have, had there been anyone his size.

You could chart the decline, even in his Lakers years.

Larry Brown, one of the few coaches to dare single-covering him in his prime, tried it with Philadelphia in the 2001 Finals with defensive player of the year Dikembe Mutombo, and the 2004 Finals in Detroit with 6-foot-7 Ben Wallace.

In 2001, O'Neal averaged 33, laying Mutombo out repeatedly with leading elbows in a 4-1 Lakers romp.

In 2004, Shaq averaged 27 as the rest of the Pistons held Kobe Bryant to 39% shooting from the field in a 4-1 Detroit romp.

Still, the aura remained. With O'Neal at 34 in the 2006 Finals with Miami, Dallas Coach Avery Johnson not only double-teamed Shaq, he hacked him, to boot, putting the Mavericks in the penalty early and leaving three of them to guard four Heat players.

Voila! Dwyane Wade shot 73 free throws in the last four games, which Miami won while Dallas owner Mark Cuban railed about the referees.

LeBron James hosts his annual King for Kids Bike-a-thon in Akron

2009-08-23T16:27:00.000+02:00

Name a sporting event that doesn't keep score but has 1,100 winners and LeBron James.

The NBA draft would be a bad guess.

But if you picked James' own King for Kids Bike-a-thon in Akron on Saturday, you can sit in the winners' circle with the 1,100 bikers who rode for charity.

And maybe Akron itself was a winner, too. Mayor Don Plusquellic certainly thought so.

In the past 20 years, the city's downtown has gone from the world's largest vacant lot to a vibrant urban center that gleams and teems with a splendidly intimate ball park and myriad destination restaurants.

The mayor was pleased because James burnished the city's luster when he let it slip out that he was committed to maintaining the bike-a-thon as an annual event no matter what.

But Mahogany Gibson didn't come to dine or take in a game. And neither did Christopher Beard.

They were among the first heat of riders, ages 9 through 14, who formed up in ranks and files like horse cavalry to charge around a one-mile course.

As they and the others waited, volunteer chaperone Dennis Leonard walked along his 11 charges like an unusually genial sergeant, adjusting helmet straps and checking for seat adjustment.

Before they took off, James took the stage and told everyone that he doesn't talk much, "but I'm real excited about this. My whole passion is about inner-city kids."

Plusquellic said that the King "loves to give back" and that his combination of generosity and talent is what elevates him above other NBA stars.

The young riders were also givers. Their participation was in recognition of their efforts in the community and in school.

But they weren't the only competitors. Deaveon Sharpe, 7, was among many scrambling for autographs. She asked a reporter for his and stopped when he said, "I'm nobody." "Yes you are," she protested. "You own the Cavs."

She was directed across the street to Cavs General Manager Danny Ferry, who doesn't own the team, either, but knows who does.

A relative said she'd already scored the signatures of Mo Williams, Cavs coach Mike Brown and "America's Got Talent" host Nick Cannon.

Brett Cavallaro and his son, Noah, 8, came up from Columbus for the family event, a three-mile course. Noah said the biggest challenges were "the hills." Dad said they'd be in the eight-mile main event next year because Noah lamented that the family course "wasn't long enough."

There was no final score on how much was raised for charity, but last year's event funneled $50,000 to the Akron YMCA and the Urban League, through the LeBron James Family Foundation. The mayor's office estimates that a total of 3,000 were downtown for the race, including spectators.

But there were other, less tangible achievements, too.

The best trophies are the ones that are deserved but unexpected, and 11-year-old Andrew Petrisko of Elyria got just such a prize Saturday.

No one may have noticed as he queued up in the first rank for the kids' one-mile event. His presence itself was the trophy.

Andrew has focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, an ailment that placed him in end-stage kidney failure.

His father, Scott, said that as late as a month ago, his son's health made it appear impossible for Andrew to enter. He'd been prepared to ride in a Carebike, a combination wheelchair and bicycle powered by someone else.

But he responded with unexpected speed to an experimental new drug treatment at Akron Children's Hospital.

After the race, Andrew told his dad, "That was awesome."

Andrew's next words were "Can we leave now?" because he had a baseball game in Elyria.

LeBron James meets with President Barack Obama

2009-06-17T12:50:00.000+02:00

Silver Spring, Md.- LeBron James visited the White House and attended a movie premiere on Monday in his first public appearances since undergoing surgery to remove a benign growth on his jaw on June 1.

The Cavaliers star looked happy and subdued, and a little self-conscious about the noticeable scar around his right ear, as he walked the red carpet before the premiere of "More Than a Game," the documentary about James and his high school basketball buddies at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron. The premiere kicked off the Silver docs Film Fes tival in Silver Spring, Md.

James ar rived at the premiere with high school teammates Dru Joyce III, Ro meo Travis, Willie McGee and Sian Cotton, former coach Dru Joyce II, Maverick Carter, the CEO of James' LRMR Marketing, and Akron native and the filmmaker Kristopher Belman.

James, wearing a blue pinstripe suit with no tie and his trademark sunglasses, posed for pictures with his friends and teammates. A large number of former teachers, administrators, classmates and alumni from St. Vincent-St. Mary were on hand, and when James and his teammates arrived a band was playing the school's fight song.

"We had a lot of fun with this because these are my best friends," James said. "This was all about friendship for us and it is great to share this."

Despite the large scar behind and on the side of his right ear, James showed no other effects from the surgery. He answered a few questions about the film, but did not answer questions about the surgery or reports that the Cavaliers are trying to acquire Phoenix Suns center Shaquille O'Neal.

James visited the White House on Monday afternoon in an appearance that was off the public schedule. He said hello to President Barack Obama (the two know one another from the campaign trail, and the president is a huge hoops fan) and got a tour of the West Wing.

It was unclear whether King James upstaged the other VIP at the White House Monday afternoon - Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Nike sticks with LeBron James puppet for Finals

2009-06-12T19:28:00.001+02:00

Elimination beckoned, and we all figured we knew what that meant. The run was over, here comes summer vacation, it's time to go fishing.

Except the Nike puppets didn't go away.

Even without LeBron James in the NBA Finals, Nike continues to run ads with the LeBron and Kobe Bryant puppets, playing on the theme that Kobe made the Finals and LeBron has to stay home baby-sitting the little kid next door, Lil Dez.

In fact, the new ads have proliferated like rabbits, becoming YouTube staples and reaching the anchor desk on ESPN's "SportsCenter," with puppet LeBron and puppet Kobe plugging two brand names at once.

"It really wasn't about pitting Kobe versus LeBron in the Finals for us," Nike spokesman DeJuan Wilkins said. "If you look at the seasons and careers that both Kobe and LeBron have had, they're quite impressive.

"We felt this was a time when a lot of people would be paying attention to basketball [at] the largest stage during the playoffs. This was a moment for us to celebrate that, what these guys have accomplished.

"For us, the strategy has always been to show the strength of those two guys together. With LeBron and the [Cleveland] Cavaliers being eliminated from the playoffs, our goal was to continue to showcase both Kobe and LeBron."

The commercials, created and produced by Wieden and Kennedy, play off a consistent theme: One puppet trying to annoy the other/others into submission. Lil Dez is so hyper that when he finally shuts up, overwhelmed by long rows of Nike shoes, he reaches for an inhaler.

The puppets earned enough attention that they served as motivation for the Orlando Magic during the conference finals. Members of the Magic said the commercials assumed the Lakers and the Cavaliers were both Finals-bound, that their chances were being ignored.

When Orlando ousted the Cavaliers, some media types wondered whether Nike would quickly bring out a Dwight Howard puppet. Not a chance -- Howard represents Adidas.

Wilkins said the company has heard that while the LeBron puppet bears a passable resemblance to the real James, the Kobe puppet, sporting a goatee, does not look like the real Bryant.

"You know, he's gone back and forth, you look at old pictures, he definitely had a goatee," Wilkins said. "I think he's at a stage now where he doesn't wear it that often, and when he does, its very, very light."

Howard, meanwhile, settled in with a Vitaminwater commercial that spoofs the Kobe-LeBron ad that the company ran during earlier playoff rounds.

So regardless of what happens on the court the rest of the way, Howard at least gets the last laugh somewhere.

Leap to Europe for LeBron possible but highly unlikely

2008-08-12T19:10:00.000+02:00

"It would be unthinkable for a top-level NBA star to leave and play in Europe. (But if anyone did, it's not hard to imagine it would be LeBron James.)

Just as it was unthinkable for an American Olympic team with NBA players to lose the gold. (Bronze in 2004.)

Just as it was unthinkable for an international player to be the NBA's Most Valuable Player (Dirk Nowitzki, 2007) or to be the NBA's top draft pick (Yao Ming, Andrew Bogut, Andrea Bargnani).

In an ESPN.com poll, 70 percent of voters, many of them perhaps prematurely despondent Clevelanders, said they expected a big NBA star to jump to Europe. Will it happen? Probably not. Is it remotely possible? Absolutely.

European basketball isn't really the bush leagues, although it is a big step below the NBA. The big difference is the cut-throat capitalism of European front offices. There is no salary cap. NBA rules let a player's current team pay him more than NBA rivals trying to sign him. It doesn't apply in international basketball.

Earl Boykins, the 5-foot, 5-inch Munchkin from Cleveland Central Catholic and a former Cavalier, is now the highest-paid player in Italy at $3.5 million per year. That's a pittance in the NBA, but Boykins' deal with Virtus Bologna gives him a cut of marketing and sponsorship income.

That's outlawed in the NBA, as is a slice of the ownership pie, another possible European inducement. That might intrigue James, who sees himself as a business tycoon.

He wants to be a billionaire. The rumored European salary is $50 million a year. Compare that to Michael Jordan's top NBA salary of $33 million.

Years ago, eager for NBA gold, James briefly considered challenging the high-school graduation rules in effect at the time for pro eligibility, then backed off.

James is certain to be a Cav for two more seasons. When his contract is up in 2010, he can sign for 25 percent of his team's salary cap. It's 20 percent now. That's why he only re-signed for three years, not four."

Source: LeBron would consider European offer of $50 million a year or more

2008-08-05T17:47:00.000+02:00

Jay-Z and the New Jersey Nets? Mike D'Antoni and the New York Knicks?

Heck, the Cleveland Cavaliers' strongest competition for LeBron James' long-term services could be the deep-pocketed new kid on the block -- Europe.

A person close to James said Tuesday that the Cavaliers' superstar would strongly consider playing overseas if he was offered a salary of "around $50 million a year."

James' current contract expires after the 2009-10 season, and while several NBA teams are working to create salary cap space for his impending free agency, none could offer a contract beginning at even $20 million a year.

The Russian team CSKA Moscow and the Greek team Olympiacos, which recently gave Josh Childress a contract approaching $30 million over three years, have already contacted James, according to the person close to him. The person added, however, that no monetary or contractual discussions have taken place.

While $50 million a year seems outlandish, it is within the realm of possibility, considering the $250 million contract David Beckham received two years ago to join the MLS, the $33 million Michael Jordan was paid by the Chicago Bulls in 1997-1998, the strength of the euro in comparison to the dollar, and the fact that European clubs are not bound by a salary cap.

While several NBA players have left the league this summer for more lucrative contracts in Europe, no stars have done so -- or even considered it. Joel Litvin, the NBA's president of league and basketball operations, said the league is not concerned about this developing trend.

"I don't want to say it's much ado about nothing, but we think it's overblown a bit," Litvin said. "It's not something we're losing sleep over. "

But losing a player of James's magnitude would be nothing short of a nightmare for the NBA.

"For the most part, the league considers the players to be fungible products," an official from the Players Association said. "But LeBron is one of the three or four players the league would definitely hate to lose. If a team lost him or Kobe [Bryant] to Europe, it would lose its mind. It would be devastating."

But both Litvin and the Players Association official said they don't foresee anything -- even the loss of a superstar -- leading the NBA to eliminate the salary cap and thereby compete financially with the European teams.

"It would be disappointing to lose one of our star players, but I have no concern at all about the best players playing anywhere but in the NBA for a long time to come," Litvin said. "I'd be surprised if one of our top players chose to go to Europe but if it did happen, there are many players who would step up and fill the void."

The source close to James said he would only play in Europe for a year or two before returning to the NBA. He said James would view it as an opportunity to popularize the game and himself overseas. He added that James would not consider himself to be playing in the "minor leagues."

"Not at all," the person said. "He believes those guys are pros also." "

LeBron James likes N.Y., (Cleveland, L.A., Florida and Jupiter, too!)

2008-07-14T09:32:00.000+02:00

Asked about the different stories he told various reporters, including conflicting statements about his age, hometown and even his full name, Dizzy Dean said, "Them ain't lies. Them's scoops."
These days, LeBron James is channeling Ol' Diz.
On June 29, James told WKNR 850's Mark "Munch" Bishop, "I'm dedicated to bringing a championship to this city. I'm bringing a parade to this city. I love this city. I love Northeast Ohio. Right now, I can't see myself going anywhere else."
The next week, he called New York his favorite city and Brooklyn his favorite borough in it.
Since the Nets are to move to Brooklyn in time for James' free-agency season in 2010, and since James' friend, the rapper Jay-Z, has a small part of the Nets' ownership, this was proof that James was halfway out The Q's door.
Except James has a pattern of pledging his allegiance to various teams and various places --- at various times.
He convinced a Sports Illustrated reporter that he was an Ohio State fan in early 2003. James and his Akron high school teammates were playing on ESPN the night after the collegiate football championship game. The story depicted an ebullient James in his Los Angeles hotel room, celebrating the Buckeyes' double-overtime victory.
Or was he made happier than anything by the loss of the Miami Hurricanes in the game?
By Olympic training camp in Jacksonville, Fla., in 2004, James was presenting himself as a fan of Florida State. "I've always been a Seminole," he said, despite going directly from high school in Akron to the NBA.
Over the years, he has said how fond he is of Southern Cal (when in Los Angeles), of Oregon (when in Portland), of North Carolina (in Charlotte), and of Michigan State (in Detroit.) If he had had to go to college, he would have needed a closet full of freshman beanies.
When young, he followed the pro teams that were powers in the 1990s -- the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bulls and the Yankees. The Yankees seem to be the only one that has stuck, at least in ballcap controversies. Even at that, cameras caught him in an Indians cap when the 2008 Olympic team gathered for early meetings recently.
What is important is that James' favorite team really is the Cavs. He likes his teammates and coach and is well-liked by them. He wants his supporting cast to get better. Considering how much he has done for the team and city, he is entitled to say that.
Certainly when he was younger, James told people what they wanted to hear. He has not entirely gotten over that inclination.
His comments about various cities also might be nothing more than a way of attracting the spotlight in times when the news is slow. But they seem to indicate a tug of war between the crossover appeal of the acting and music opportunities in New York and the ties of family and friends he has to Northeast Ohio.
If Cleveland does not offer the entertainment forums of New York, it also offers enough unconditional love to trump any rival. He has "Chosen 1" tattooed on his back, but we chose him as franchise and city savior.
What he says ain't necessarily lies, but it ain't news either. It will take a while to find out what's the scoop with him.

LeBron offering sage advice

2008-01-11T19:28:00.000+01:00

When LeBron James was a rookie, he preferred to learn by doing.

He kept in touch with several friends around the NBA who were veterans, but for the most part, he wanted to experience everything for himself. But not every young star feels that way, including the Seattle SuperSonics' budding franchise player, Kevin Durant, and James is happy to oblige.

After getting to know each other last summer when Durant trained with Team USA in Las Vegas, James and Durant have built a relationship and often the Cavaliers' star serves as a mentor.

''I was in the same position Kevin was coming into the league and trying to be the face of a franchise and try to lead the team to victory,'' James said. ''He's having his difficulties in his first year, just like I had my difficulties.''

Durant and James talk or text message each other every few days, discussing everything from the game to their personal lives to injuries. Durant recently had a sprained finger and James, who suffered the same injury last month, gave advice about how to treat it.

''He's been like a big brother to me,'' Durant said. ''I'm very fortunate to have a relationship with probably the best player in the world, and I'm going to take advantage of it.''

James is embracing the role. Not only has he grown into the captain of the Cavs, but he's also built a core of friends around the league who come to him for advice, even though he just celebrated his 23rd birthday last week.

''It's kind of funny because sometimes I'll be a mentor to guys who are older than me,'' James said. ''But I was in the league before them, so I kind of know the ins and outs. It's kind of cool.''

In the locker room

• Zydrunas Ilgauskas is averaging 14 points and a career-high 9.9 rebounds. Usual All-Star Shaquille O'Neal is having a bad year and is out with an injury, so there is a chance Ilgauskas could contend for his third career All-Star Game berth. But he doesn't think so.

''I don't think I've got the numbers for that. If they would consider me, that would be a great honor,'' Ilgauskas said. ''But I also look forward to having those days off, too.''

• Anderson Varejao returned Tuesday after missing a practice with a right quad strain. The injury is likely to nag Varejao for a while, but the team doesn't think he'll have to miss any games. ''It bothers me a little bit when I jump,'' Varejao said. ''I am just going to have to warm up good.''

• Cedric Simmons will play his third game with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League tonight. In two games last weekend, Simmons averaged 11.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.5 blocks in 28 minutes per game.

No, LeBron James blog is not dead!!!

2007-12-11T16:32:00.000+01:00

I just can't write as often as before because of my college duties...

So, what to say about LeBron so far this season? Hahaha nothing more than we already know - PERFECTION!!! :)

He missed 5 last games because of sprained left index finger and we can all see that he is tired of his team losing without him! So, he'll probably be in lineup tonight against Pacers but it's a game-time decision...

It can only get better for Cavs :)

'Saturday Night Live' Kicks Off 33rd Season With LeBron James, Kanye West

2007-09-22T23:12:00.000+02:00

Fresh of its recent Emmy wins, NBC's "Saturday Night Live" returns for its 33rd season on September 29 (11:30 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. ET) for three consecutive shows with a diverse and star-studded line-up.

"Saturday Night Live" continues its historic run while breaking new ground, including recently taking home two Emmy Awards, including an Emmy for the SNL Digital Short-turned internet phenomenon -- "D**k in a Box."

The show kicks off its new season September 29 with one of the newest generation of NBA superstars -- Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James. Joining James in his second appearance on SNL (and second SNL Season Premiere) is hip-hop icon Kanye West.

October 6 brings the star of the two biggest comedy hits of the summer to SNL -- writer-producer-actor Seth Rogen. Joining Rogen in making their SNL debut is the critically praised indie band Spoon.

On October 13 , "SNL" will serve a double helping of rock with host Jon Bon Jovi and musical guest Foo Fighters.

James sees better than ever after eye surgery

2007-09-15T15:44:00.000+02:00

LeBron James took another step toward improving his game last week, undergoing Lasik eye surgery in Beverly Hills, Calif.

The procedure, performed by Dr. Kerry K. Assil, is designed to improve vision and assures a faster recovery. James' vision has improved to 20/15, according to Assil, and he has already been cleared to resume workouts.

Lasik, which typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, involves a surgeon creating a corneal flap. The flap is then peeled back and a laser is used to reshape the cornea. Once the cornea is reshaped, light rays coming into the eye will properly focus on the retina for clearer vision.

James recently led the United States team to a gold medal in the FIBA Americas tournament in Las Vegas, which qualified them for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

He is scheduled to host the season premiere of "Saturday Night Live" from New York on Sept. 29. On Oct. 2, James and the Cavaliers open training camp and defense of their Eastern Conference championship.

James Is Just One of the Guys

2007-08-30T15:18:00.000+02:00

Kobe Bryant was the first to track down LeBron James, elevating to chest bump the star after he made a ridiculous, 40-foot bank shot at the end of the first half of the United States' 113-76 victory over Brazil on Sunday.

James howled and scowled. Then, one by one, James's teammates rushed to bump chests with him to celebrate the just-inside-of-half-court heave that gave the United States a 19-point lead and kept Brazil at bay.

A day later, the United States looked lethargic and uninterested at halftime against Mexico until James anointed himself "the energy man" and scored 16 points, including three three-pointers, in the first seven minutes of the third period to spark another lopsided victory in the FIBA Americas Championship.

James hasn't been asked to score much, only to fill the gaps in this Olympic qualifying tournament. No longer playing the role as "King" of the Cavaliers -- the team he led to the last NBA Finals June -- James is relishing being just another member of the court.

"Whatever they need from me," said James, who averaged 13.8 points, 5.5 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals in the first five games of this Olympic qualifying tournament. "This is about the team."

Before exploding for a combined 40 points against Brazil and Mexico, James was content crashing the boards and being the team's best playmaker not named Jason Kidd. "If my teammates need me to score, or if I sense they need me to score, I'll do that," he said. "I'm still going to rack up the rebounds and assists."

If the Americans need a stop, James is reading the passing lanes like a defensive back to get steals and get the team off and running on the break. He is breaking up lulls in action with electrifying, Youtube-worthy dunks or finding Bryant and Carmelo Anthony cutting to the basket for slams. And, the 6-foot-8 James even played extended minutes at power forward when Tayshaun Prince went down with an ankle injury and Anthony was in foul trouble early against Brazil.

"For me, it wasn't such a bad thing," said James, who claims that he has beefed up to 260 pounds since the Spurs swept him out in the NBA Finals. "I'm used to playing big minutes and I put my body in good shape to do that."

With role players like this, who are the stars, again?

"Kobe, LeBron and a number of guys are saying, 'I'm willing to change my role from what it is on my current team to fit this team,' " U.S. Coach said. "It's called being unselfish.

"Our guys are only concerned about one score, the score on the scoreboard. You have two of the great players in the world in Kobe and LeBron and they're fine. They're fine. LeBron is more of a pass-first player anyway. You put him and Jason Kidd out on the court and you almost have two point guards, which is why our break is so good."

With the exception of surrendering 100 points against Mexico, the Americans' defense has been solid as well, holding opponents to just 36 percent shooting and 73.4 points through the first five games. Bryant has set much of the defensive tone by taking on the challenge of guarding the opposing team's best players, but James has been especially active on the defensive end, switching on picks and shouting out instructions. He also has a team-high nine steals.

"I want to try to be as aggressive as I can on the defensive end and that's one aspect of the game that I've gotten better at," James said. "Being a leader on the court, I'm going to let my game speak for itself but I'm going to go out there and try to help us communicate the best we can on defense."

James has two bronze medals in international competition, after third-place finishes in the 2004 Olympics in Athens and the world championships last summer in Japan. He said he doesn't use those losses as motivation for winning a gold in Beijing next summer.

"It's not about making up [for the past], it's a new beginning for us," James said. "For me 2004 doesn't mean much. I was part of the team but I really wasn't part of the team. This is a new group of guys and we understand how important this is and we are going to come out and play hard and try to win. We always chant: '1, 2, 3, Dominate.' We know we can go out and play the game of basketball. We know we can beat anybody."

I apologize

2007-08-03T23:23:00.000+02:00

I know that many of you (more like EVERYONE) don't like the commercials on my blog (like on any other), but I'm affraid that it's a thing I can't be withut because it makes me money. :-)
And we all know that no one knows one who doesn't love it!
So please don't be mad at me and keep visiting my blog.
Hope you enjoy it!
And hey, you can even click on an ad!! :-D
And also, if you like making money, you can join Cashfiesta using the big annoying banner on the middle of your screen, or, if you are lazy to scroll up, you can click on this: http://www.cashfiesta.com/php/join.php?ref=achileus

Thank you for reading this!

LeBron James to Host NBC's SNL

2007-07-25T23:38:00.000+02:00

Live from New York, it's LeBron!
Cavaliers All-Star forward LeBron James, fresh off co-hosting the ESPY Awards earlier this month, will host the season premiere of 'Saturday Night Live' in September, an NBC spokesman confirmed Wednesday.
The 22-year-old James will be the latest prominent athlete to host 'SNL.' His boyhood idol, NBA superstar Michael Jordan, hosted the show in 1991. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning appeared last season.
His 'SNL' appearance was first reported by Daily Variety.
James got positive reviews for his work co-hosting the ESPYs along with Jimmy Kimmel. The show honored the year's best sports moments and athletes.
James appeared in several skits and danced and sang a version of Bobby Brown's 'My Prerogative' with rewritten lyrics about his own fame.
Later this week, James is expected to report to mini-camp with the U.S. national team as it begins preparations for next month's FIBA Americas tournament, the regional qualifier for the 2008 Olympics.
Last season, James led Cleveland to its first NBA finals, where the Cavs were swept in four games by the San Antonio Spurs. He was the overall No. 1 pick in the 2003 draft, and in four seasons, James has become one of the league's star players as well as one of its most popular.

James' joke criticised

2007-07-21T23:39:00.000+02:00

7:(

LeBron James threw the baby out with the bath wa ter when he co-hosted the ESPYs last week. In trying to make fun of his "King James" image, he created a worse one in a matter of seconds.
Shouldn't anyone be in hot water after slam-dunking a baby?
The criticism has been slight so far because ESPN broadcasts the similarly named ESPYs, and the "worldwide leader" isn't going to criticize itself. Also, the ESPYs audience skews to the young and attention-challenged.

No one except comedian Dane Cook acknowledged the ill-advised skit. Cook wondered if James' dancing in a Hammer/Bobby Brown send-up or "when he dunked the baby" was more tasteless.
In the skit, James stood at the side of the stage, holding a baby in a blanket in his arms. The baby looked too big to be his infant second son, Bryce Maximus, but who knows? It's hard to tell on TV. Then James jumped and dunked a doll wrapped in the same blanket through a basket. After it smacked off the floor, he said, "Let's see if Angelina Jolie can adopt that baby."
Jolie is an actress, a magnet for the tabloids and entertainment shows, and one half of the Brangelina couple with Brad Pitt. People magazine can't publish without them.
Jolie is comic gold to some because she is a serial adopter. But international adoption agencies say her celebrity status has brought increased awareness of the problems children face in such impoverished nations as Cambodia and Ethiopia, from which she had adopted children. Other parents have been encouraged to follow her example. It was tone-deaf to bash this kind of work.
By the most generous interpretation, the skit was part of a show-long attempt by James to mock himself while throwing criticism back at his detractors.
Some fret about his egomania because he likes to be known as basketball royalty. So the Cavaliers forward entered the show on a throne, borne by muscle-bound bearers, with what looked like the Imperial margarine crown perched on his head. Co-host Jimmy Kimmel knelt and kissed his ring.
Those of us who have been around him for years in the media like him for this. He can poke fun at himself. It is rare in a world in which players take offense at any perceived slight and speak of themselves in the third person. Later in the show, James mocked his nervous habit of biting his fingernails, chewing at them as if they were an ear of corn.
As for the baby slam, however, if it was supposed to be some kind of reply to fans wondering why he hasn't married his girlfriend, it didn't work.
And why drag Angelina Jolie in for doing a good deed in a world in need of it?
It was shock for the sake of shock. James was playing against type as the guy who wants everyone to like him. It also was an appalling lapse in judgment.
Blaming the people who wrote the script doesn't work. James has made almost no missteps in his endorsement and entertainment career. He chooses smart, funny commercials that let him "showcase," to use one of his favorite terms, his sense of humor. He has held his own with David Letterman.
It was up to him to say he would not do the skit. Because humanitarianism isn't the butt of a joke. Because child abuse isn't funny.

LeBron welcomes baby boy

2007-06-17T21:00:00.000+02:00

LeBron James will have at least one good memory from the Finals.
James' longtime girlfriend, Savannah Brinson, gave birth to the couple's second son just before 1 a.m. Thursday at Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital. Bryce Maximus James weighed in at 8 pounds, 6 ounces and was 21 inches long when he came into the world at 12:51 a.m. Brinson chose the first name and James picked the middle name in honor of Russell Crowe's character in the movie Gladiator, James' favorite movie.
It was a long night for both parents: Brinson was in labor for nearly nine hours, and James was unable to sleep, getting no rest until after the Cavs' shootaround at 11 a.m.
``It puts everything in perspective,'' James said. ``I think this is definitely special for me, being a part of this, being a part of the NBA, being a part of the NBA Finals. Having my family is an exciting time also -- it's great. Win, lose or draw, this is special to my family. To have another James come into the family, it doesn't get any better than that.''
James was happy he could be present for the birth. He had said he would miss the birth if it conflicted with a Finals game. He and Brinson have been together for more than four years. James, who is a year older, took Brinson to her senior prom at Buchtel High in 2004. The couple had their first child, LeBron James Jr., in October 2004.
Dad is hoping his two sons can follow in his footsteps.
``Right now, they look like two small, small forwards,'' James said. ``Kind of like Tayshaun Prince.''

Bruce Bowen defense?! :-/

2007-06-08T19:15:00.000+02:00

Bruce Bowen went into Game 1 of the NBA Finals taking sole responsibility for limiting Cleveland Cavaliers' star LeBron James.
James didn't get his first basket of the game until 7:15 remained in the third period. He missed 12 of his 16 shots and had only four assists.
Bowen, though, took minimal personal satisfaction.
"I'm happy with the victory," he said. "He didn't have a 48-point game, and I'm happy with that."
It was up to Bowen's teammates to give Bowen the credit he deserved.
"We do a pretty good job containing people," Tim Duncan said. "It helps a little bit to have somebody like Bruce. That's definitely not something you look past. He's guarded every position throughout these playoffs, and he's done a great job with it. So a lot of credit to him."
During this playoff run, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has used Bowen on Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony, Deron Williams and now, James. He knows Bowen gives his team concept the best opportunity to succeed.
"He takes great pride in guarding the other team's best player," Popovich said. "He doesn't always stop him. Our team defense is what we count on, but team defense begins with individuals taking responsibility, and I think Bruce does that very well."
With four full days to prepare for the Cavs, the Spurs' coaches put together a defensive scheme to contain James that included strong hedging from the big men on pick-and-roll situations. That had the dual effect of double-teaming James while taking away his passing lanes.
Nevertheless, Bowen's approach was typically single-minded: Stay in front of James and prevent him from getting past to attack the rim and the Spurs' big men.
Duncan may be the NBA's best defender at the rim, but Bowen believes any defender that counts on him to clean up mistakes is defeated before he starts.
"If I rely on Tim, he gets past me, just like that," Bowen said, snapping his fingers. "Now it's LeBron with a head of steam against Tim Duncan. That's just a bad situation for Tim. Any time a big man is dealing with a guy coming at him with a full head of steam, it's difficult.
"So if I can do my job, in the process he can come over and help."
Midway through the first quarter, Bowen's defensive work on James forced the Cavs' star to give up his dribble, just as Duncan came over to help. A frustrated James ended up forcing up a shot that Duncan swatted right back at him.
Afterward, Bowen chuckled at the notion that Duncan might put a photo of the block in his locker. James has a photo of his dunk over Duncan in the Cavaliers' Nov.3 regular-season victory over the Spurs displayed in his locker in Cleveland.
"That's what our big fellow does for us," Bowen said, smiling. "Everybody here is trying to cover for one another. This is what happens at times."
Bowen knows what happened Thursday at AT&T Center is no guarantee the Spurs will have similar success against James in Sunday's Game 2.
"It's not something you can be too happy with at this point," Bowen said, "because at this point in the year it's about how you react after victories. I want to make sure I stay hungry and understand I can improve in some areas, as well."

LeBron James magic

2007-06-02T19:49:00.000+02:00

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- LeBron James put on one of the most memorable playoff performances in NBA history on Thursday night.
James had dunks, fadeaway jumpers and he scored the winning basket in a thrilling 109-107 double-overtime victory over the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference finals.
James finished with 48 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in 51 minutes. He also scored 29 of the Cavs' last 30 points, including 25 straight. Cavs coach Mike Brown is glad he was a witness. "This was the single best game I've ever seen on this level and in this atmosphere hands down," Brown said. "He was absolutely phenomenal."
Despite his playoff-best performance, James was more satisfied with the victory.
"If I did everything I did tonight and we lost, it means nothing," James said. "The win is the most important thing for us, and we need one more win to reach our goal."
The Cavs are in the same position they were in last season in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Pistons. This time, however, the Cavs hope for different results. The Cavs can close out the series and the Pistons' season on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. in Game 6 at The Q.
"Willing my team to victory is definitely pleasing to me," James said. "This is one of the biggest wins in Cavaliers' history.
"But we have a goal. We can't dwell on this when we have another game on Saturday. We'll do our best to try to win that ball game and get where we want to be all year."
Just like last year, the Cavs trailed, 0-2, in the conference semifinals against the Pistons but roared back to win three straight. The Cavs forced a Game 7, but lost the series. Now, they're one game away from advancing to the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.
The Cavs led by two points late in the first overtime, but Eric Snow fouled Chauncey Billups with 3.1 seconds left. Billups nailed the free throws to tie the score. Snow attempted a desperation shot at the buzzer to send the game into double overtime.
Late in the second overtime, James nailed a fall-away 3-pointer to tie the score. Moments later he scored inside on a layup for a two-point lead with 2.2 seconds left. Billups missed the final shot to end the game and James' spectacular moment.
"I feel terrible," said James, when asked how he felt physically. "I'm everything. I'm banged up, I'm winded, I'm fatigued, and I have all day tomorrow. "But it'll be tough to get some rest when you have a crazy 2-year old [his son James Jr.] running around the house. Hopefully, I can take him to one of his grandmother's house."
The Cavs struggled in the third quarter throughout the postseason. They have been outscored 10 of 14 times in the third entering Thursday's game. James also has struggled in the third (averaging 5.1 points in the postseason), but the Cavs turned things around Thursday. They outscored the Pistons, 19-18, in the third, although James still did not have a breakout third (2-of-6 for six points). However, he did enough.
The Cavs trailed by eight but a 12-4 run, capped by Anderson Varejao's layup, tied the score at 65.
Tayshaun Prince fired up the Pistons and the crowd with a reverse dunk for a five-point lead, but a James' turnaround jumper followed by a James drive and kick to Daniel Gibson for a 3-pointer tied the score at 70.
In the second quarter, the Pistons extended their lead to eight, but the Cavs went to an inside game and cut the deficit to two after Zydrunas Ilgauskas' tip-in. Varejao's dunk with 2:43 left gave the Cavs' their first lead of the quarter. James' tip-in extended the Cavs' lead to three. The Pistons tied the score at 50. The Cavs trailed at the half after two Jason Maxiell free throws.
James had 13 points at the half. Billups had 13 to lead the Pistons. Drew Gooden and Larry Hughes had three fouls each at the half.
Larry Hughes started his second straight game thanks to another shot of pain killer in his injured left foot. Hughes played well early. He nailed consecutive 3-pointers. He finished with eight points in the first quarter, but added only one point in the second half.
The Pistons, however, led, 21-15, with 4:13 left in the first. It was their largest lead of the series. The crucial moment in the quarter happened late. James made a no-look pass to Varejao, who was open in the lane. Antonio McDyess came over and clothes-lined Varejao on the layup attempt. Varejao hit the floor. James ran over but players from each side held everyone back.
McDyess received a flagrant two foul, and he was ejected. James received a technical but remained in the game.

King James is dethroned??!

2007-05-13T19:25:00.000+02:00

The NBA, like most professional leagues, often takes on a ``what have you done lately?'' mantra. For the media that cover it, the answer concerning LeBron James seems to be a resounding: ``Not so much.''
In what was considered a surprise, at least in Cleveland, James was left off the All-NBA first team, which was announced Thursday. James not only made the team last year but led in overall votes. This time, though, he wasn't all that close. The San Antonio Spurs' Tim Duncan edged him for the last forward spot by getting 30 more first-team votes. James landed a spot on the second team.
The Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash and Amare Stoudemire, the Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant and the Dallas Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki also were on the first team.
James' scoring numbers were down this season, but he became the first player since Oscar Robertson to average at least 27 points, six rebounds and six assists for three consecutive seasons. James, as he usually does, downplayed the significance of individual honors.
``It doesn't matter for me. I'm happy to be part of an elite group, it doesn't matter first or second team,'' James said. ``I've just got to play well for my teammates and continue to get better.''
James' teammates and coaches weren't as diplomatic.
``Not to mention he's one of the best individual talents in the game, he's also on a team that won 50 games,'' Larry Hughes said. ``That's definitely a knock on us and a knock on him, because he's done everything asked of him to make us one of the best teams in the league.''
``Wow. I'm shocked. Do I look shocked?'' Drew Gooden said. ``A lot of people are shocked. We'll see what happens.''
Perhaps it isn't all that surprising, considering this awards season has shown a general lack of appreciation for the Cavs' season.
``LeBron is our guy, so I'm a little biased,'' Cavs coach Mike Brown said. ``What he does I truly believe a lot of people take for granted. I guess that's how the business is.''
If there was any solace to be taken by the Cavs, it's their 2-0 lead over the New Jersey Nets in the conference semifinals. James focused on that and alluded to the fact that all the other players on the second team and two players on the first team are out of the postseason.
``I know we're still in the playoffs, and we won 50 games,'' James said. ``There's a lot of guys on the first team and the second team (who) are out of the playoffs -- you can take it from there.''

2007-04-30T22:46:00.000+02:00

The Cleveland Cavaliers are still LeBron James' team, but at least at the moment he has a strong supporting cast. Guard Larry Hughes scored 27 points in Game 1. Forward Drew Gooden was the key player in Game 2, finishing with 24 points and 14 rebounds. And 7-foot-3 center Zydrunas Ilgauskas is having an excellent series, scoring 24 points on 10-for-13 shooting in Saturday's Game 3. "Last year, especially in the playoffs, if LeBron wasn't getting it done, we weren't getting it done as a team," Cleveland coach Mike Brown said. "It takes some of the pressure and load off of him and our team when other guys are able to step up. The offense is evolving to where not every play is called for LeBron. Sometimes LeBron gets action on the backside." James has been outstanding as a playmaker, drawing extra attention from the defense and finding open teammates. Ilgauskas has stepped out and made open jumpers. The same is true for Hughes and Sasha Pavlovic, whose 3-pointer off James' drive-and-dish clinched the Cavaliers' Game 3 win. "We do a lot at practice knowing I am going to receive double-teams and triple-teams sometimes. How do we react to it?" James said. "Drew had a great cut baseline last night to put us up five. Ilgauskas was able to find a comfort zone out there, and I was able to find him for a jump shot. And Sasha hit one of the biggest shots of the season, making the corner 3. Guys are making themselves available and knocking them down." Nothing special for Hughes .Hughes said he will take no extra satisfaction if the Cavaliers close a series sweep on his former homecourt. The 6-5 guard left Washington after the 2004-05 season for a five-year deal worth a guaranteed $12 million a season, with incentives that could push the deal to $14 million annually. "Not really," he said. "These are definitely my friends here. This is where just the basketball game comes into play. There is nothing extra going on." Hughes averaged 22.0 points and 2.9 steals a game and was named to the NBA All-Defensive first team in his final season with Washington. "It was a good experience for me," he said. "It allowed me to be who I am and realize what I can do. I have a lot of thanks for the guys. That's why I play the way I do."

James Scores 35 As Cavs Beat Nets

2007-04-12T23:41:00.000+02:00

LeBron James looked playoff ready. The New Jersey Nets aren't quite there yet. James scored 35 points in 36 minutes and the Cleveland Cavaliers secured home-court advantage for the first round of the NBA playoffs with a 94-76 win Thursday night over the Nets, who blew a chance to inch closer to a postseason berth.
Larry Hughes added 19 points for Cleveland (47-32), which tied idle Chicago (47-32) for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. The Cavs have three games left, and they'll probably have to win them all and hope the Bulls _ who own the tiebreaker between the clubs _ stumble to avoid a possible first-round matchup against the Miami Heat.
With a few trademark dunks, and more energy than he's shown in recent weeks, James took over in the third quarter, scoring 15 points when the Cavaliers shot 82 percent (14-of-17) from the field to blow the game open.
Vince Carter scored 26 points to lead the Nets (37-41), who came in as the East's No. 7 seed.
A victory would have reduced New Jersey's magic number for clinching a sixth straight playoff appearance to one. However, the Nets were out of synch offensively and got just five points from Richard Jefferson and only eight from Jason Kidd.
Jefferson, who was coming off a season-high 35-point performance against Washington, was only 2-of-13 from the field.
New Jersey's next chance to lower its magic number will be at home on Friday against New York.

LeBron and Marbury in Shoe War

2007-03-30T19:27:00.000+02:00

Stephon Marbury gave his sneaker rebuttal to LeBron James and said the Cavaliers superstar didn't do his "homework."
James, who has a $90 million endorsement contract with Nike, took a shot at the quality of Marbury's sneaker/apparel line before Wednesday's Knicks game. The discounted Starbury shoes go for $14.98 and his T-shirts and sweatshirts for $9.99. By comparison, James' Zoom LeBron IV retails for $150 and a James' T-shirt for $55.
"I laughed," Marbury told The Post when he saw the remarks. "I'd rather own than be owned. When he retires, he's not going to own anything.
"I don't think he did his homework," Marbury added. "We're putting out the same stuff he's putting out, just at an affordable price. But I understand that he's got to say that because it's part of the business."
James said Wednesday he would never have a discount line.
"Me being with Nike, we hold our standards high. And we do a great job of putting out great merchandise, great shoes. It does come with a price that is pretty high, but at the same time you're getting great quality for it."
Marbury, who makes $17 million this season on his Knicks' contract, said he's not in it for the money. James is making $5.8M on the tail end of his rookie-scale deal.

Cavaliers beat Knicks

2007-03-24T20:20:00.000+01:00

LeBron James scored 21 points with 10 assists and the Cleveland Cavaliers were barely threatened in a dull 90-68 victory over the sluggish and sloppy New York Knicks on Friday night.
The Cavaliers, who were humiliated in an overtime loss to Charlotte and humbled by Dallas on consecutive nights earlier this week, took control in the first quarter and handled the Knicks with ease.
Larry Hughes and Zydrunas Ilgauskas added 16 points apiece for Cleveland, which has won nine of 11 to keep pressure on Detroit for the best record in the Eastern Conference.
The Knicks are going in the other direction.
Eddy Curry scored 27 points with nine rebounds to pace New York, which lost for the fifth time in six games and is running out of time to make a playoff push. The Knicks scored just 12 points in the fourth quarter, only 30 in the second half and had their lowest-scoring game this season.
Rookie Renaldo Balkman added 12 points for the Knicks, who had 20 turnovers.
James, who was dazed after banging his head on the floor in a nasty fall against the Mavericks, seemed to be himself while scoring 14 points in 18 minutes of the second half. When Cleveland pushed its lead to 21 in the fourth quarter, James came out and spent the final 5:47 on the bench.
He grabbed a seat just before his 2-year-old son, LeBron James Jr., threw a plastic orange ball from his courtside seat onto the floor for the second time this season.

LeBron back after sitting for a game

2007-03-15T17:01:00.000+01:00

After missing Tuesday night's home game against Sacramento with back spasms, James flew here with the team and felt much better when he woke up. He got some rest, put some heat on his back and then after a long pre-game massage, declared himself ready to go against the Grizzlies.
"If I didn't feel like I was ready to play, I'd do what I did last night," James said about an hour before the game. "I'm definitely ready to play. I won't hold back. My back is a little tight, but it's not going to stop me from doing what I can do on the court.

"A back is off and on. Sometimes it flares up. An ankle's a little bit different. If you're out and try to come back after an ankle injury, sometimes you are a little hesitant. I'll definitely try to be myself out there tonight and go out and get a win."
After Tuesday, the Cavs are 9-2 without James, 3-0 this season.
"I told them if they want me to sit out the rest of the regular season, I would," James said with a laugh. "Then they straightened their faces out."
Ira paying off:
James' return cost Ira Newble his second straight start. But Cavs coach Mike Brown said he would try to find him some minutes.
"He's been showing he deserves some time on the floor," said Brown, who started Newble against Sacramento. "But I looked also at who our opponent was, and I saw No. 93 [Ron Artest] in the other uniform. Our best and biggest and most physical perimeter defender is Ira."
Shooting stars:
Tuesday night against Sacramento, the Cavs shot .541 from the field, .565 from three-point range and .905 from the free-throw line. The last time the Cavs shot .500 or better from the field and 3-point range and at least .900 from the free throw line was Dec. 11, 2001, at Houston (.554 field goal percentage, .538 3-point field goal percentage, .900 free-throw percentage.) Last night marked just the fifth time the feat has been accomplished by the Cavs in the past 10 seasons.
The last word:
From James, when asked if the Grizzlies, with the worst record in the league, could hope for a player like him - "I don't know if the Grizzlies will be able to get a player like me, but . . ."

LeBron and Wade rivalry

2007-02-10T21:50:00.000+01:00

LeBron James and Dwyane Wade made like magicians that afternoon, causing eight players to disap pear. James and Wade entered a zone and locked the door behind them, seamlessly turning a team contest into a one-on-one showdown straight off the playground.
Basketball fans, whether at The Q, listening to the radio or watching on television, likely have clear mental images from April 1, 2006 - the most recent matchup in Cleveland between James' Cavaliers and Wade's Miami Heat. The Cavaliers rallied to win, 106-99.
Either player will be hard-pressed to top what he did that afternoon when the teams face each other tonight at The Q. James finished with 47 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists and two steals in 46 minutes. He originally was credited with a triple double, but the NBA office later erased an assist upon film review. Wade countered with 44 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and two steals in 43 minutes.
Given the quality of the teams involved, the competitiveness of the game and the skills displayed by the two headliners, it ranks among the NBA's most entertaining regular-season games in years.
"Honestly, we knew it would be an instant classic, the way we were going back and forth and competing and trying to help our team win," James said after practice Thursday.
"It was one of those games where it seemed like you could play all night."
For this classic, James and Wade wrote, produced, directed and acted - particularly when it mattered most. What elevated this game to epic status was their performance in the fourth quarter.
James scored 18 points on 6-of-7 shooting from the field and 4-of-4 from the line in his 12 minutes. He had three assists. Wade stared back with 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the field and 2-of-2 from the line.
Cavaliers coach Mike Brown found himself periodically reaching for imaginary popcorn.
"Sometimes you get caught up in the moment, where you forget what you're doing and just watch, and this was one of those times," Brown said. "It was a privilege to be there."
Heat coach Pat Riley, not one prone to hyperbole, seemed awestruck afterward.
"Dwyane made some incredible, incredible plays, as did LeBron," Riley said. "So from that standpoint, people got a view of absolute greatness. The bigger the moment, both of them stepped up even bigger. I haven't seen [two] players do that in a long, long time."
James and Wade, by point or assist, factored in 75 percent of the scoring in a quarter controlled by Cleveland, 37-26. They did so with a variety of moves and shots worthy of the Harlem Globetrotters.
"I remember one time after I scored, he scored, I scored, he scored, we kind of looked at each other and said, 'Hey, bring it home, let's see who'll bring it home,' " Wade said Thursday after the Heat's practice at The Q. "It was fun in the moment. He came out with the win, so I think he had a little more fun than I did. But it was exciting."
In a three-minute span early in the fourth, James was 3-of-3 for eight points and Wade was 4-of-5 for nine. In a three-minute span late, James was 3-of-3 for six points, plus two assists, and Wade was 3-of-5 with a free throw for seven.
"It was a case of, 'Can you top this?' where both players eminently succeeded in doing just that," said Michael Reghi, who called the action for WUAB Channel 43. "It was basketball theater at its finest, a ballet with a couple of Baryshnikovs."
As he processed what had unfolded, Reghi envisioned an even bigger picture.
"I'm thinking, these two megastars might be in the middle of a legitimate team rivalry," Reghi said. "For too long, the NBA has been devoid of big-time, bitter team rivalries. The genesis is a great player on each side."
The optimal place for a rivalry to get its sea legs is the playoffs. It almost happened for the Cavaliers and Heat last spring. The Cavaliers were one game from facing the Heat in the Eastern Conference finals - it would have been their first meeting since the April 1 game - but the Detroit Pistons won the last two games of a semifinal to advance.
Miami defeated the Pistons before disposing of the Dallas Mavericks for its first NBA title. Wade carried the Heat in the finals, becoming the first of the 2003 draft class's celebrated Big Three (Wade, James, Carmelo Anthony) to win a ring.
The Cavaliers were forced to wait until Feb. 1 to resume their dealings with the Heat. It did not go well. Wade scored 24 of his 41 points in the fourth quarter as the Heat came back to win, 92-89, at Miami. The Cavaliers were outscored, 34-23, in the fourth in part because James failed to hold up his end.
James, playing on a tender right big toe, finished 6-of-18 from the field and 3-of-8 from the line for 17 points. He accepted responsibility for the loss, saying, "I owe my team one."

LeBron takes responsibility for loss

2007-02-03T12:54:00.000+01:00

A sprained right big toe couldn't keep LeBron James out of the Cleveland Cavaliers' starting lineup Thursday night vs. the Heat.

But whether it was the lingering effects of the injured toe or the Heat's defense, James wasn't himself in the Cavaliers' 92-89 loss at American Airlines Arena.

The NBA's seventh-leading scorer with a 27.2-point average, James was held to 17 points on 6-of-18 shooting from the floor.

James, who had missed two of the Cavaliers' previous three games, had a particularly nightmarish stretch over the game's final 1:02. He missed 3 of 4 free throws, was charged with a flagrant foul and missed a potential game-tying, three-point attempt at the buzzer.

"I take full responsibility for this loss," James said. "I had a lot of chances to put us up two or tie the game and I didn't make plays for our team to win. As a leader, I didn't come through. I owe my team one."

James' output was a far cry from his sizzling performance the last time he faced the Heat and Wade. In that April 1 shootout, James scored 47 points while Wade registered 44 in the Cavaliers' 106-99 victory.

Wade nearly matched that performance on Thursday with 41 points, including 24 in the final quarter as the Heat overcame an eight-point deficit after three periods.

James, 22, wasn't able to keep up. He scored three points in the first half and connected on only 2 of 5 shots from the field and 2 of 5 free throws in the fourth quarter as the Cavaliers wilted.

"We played three or four different defenders on him and they all did a pretty good job," said Heat center Shaquille O'Neal.

Asked if he were hampered by the toe, James said, "It felt pretty good. That was not an issue tonight."

James said he expects the injury to linger for the remainder of the season, adding that the only way to make it better is with long-term rest.

"But right now there's no rest to get," James said. "We have a lot of ballgames to play. An injury like this, you have to wait until the off-season where you can really stay off of it for two or three weeks, where you can actually do nothing. That's when it's going to get better."

The pain from his injured toe has not been "unbearable," according to James, but it has been frustrating. Given the choice, James said, he would rather deal with an injury that keeps him out for "two or three weeks" but heals in that period of time.

"When you have an injury where you feel good sometimes and you don't feel good other times, it's kind of frustrating," James said.

LeBron leads in All-star voting!

2007-01-28T21:53:00.000+01:00

CLEVELAND - LeBron James got two pieces of good news on Thursday, one physical and one ceremonial.
The NBA officially announced James had become the first member of the Cavaliers to lead the league in All-Star voting, garnering more than 2.5 million votes (second most all-time), to edge injured favorite Yao Ming by about 1 million votes. James will make his third consecutive All-Star start and defend his game Most Valuable Player trophy on Feb. 18 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
He will be joined in the Eastern Conference starting lineup by Shaquille O'Neal, Dwyane Wade, Gilbert Arenas and Chris Bosh. The West starters will be Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady, Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan and Yao, although he won't be able to play.
It was a special triumph for James, whose game always has had All-Star billing, but unseating Yao and his huge Asian following shows his popularity has reached international levels.
"Just getting the opportunity to be the leading vote-getter is kind of unbelievable,'' James said. "That's something I've never dreamed of. I've always wanted to be an All-Star, but being the leading vote-getter over guys like Vince Carter, Shaquille O'Neal, Dwyane Wade and Allen Iverson, you never think that's going to happen.''
On another front more important to the Cavs and their issues of late, James got a clear medical report on an issue with his right big toe. He injured the toe during the Cavs' West Coast trip and re-aggravated it in Wednesday's loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. That prompted an X-ray on Thursday that caused him to miss the Cavs' brief practice at Quicken Loans Arena.
The exam showed no damage and it's expected James will start when the Cavs play the 76ers tonight in Philadelphia.
James has been fighting a number of nagging injuries of late. His right ankle was hurt when the Denver Nuggets' J.R. Smith landed on him last Friday. He has a sore muscle in his side after he landed awkwardly after getting a rebound Monday against the Orlando Magic. He also banged his neck and back Wednesday crashing into the stands.
Earlier this month, he wore a sleeve on his right arm for a week to help clear up bursitis in his elbow and a brace on his left knee to help relieve tendinitis.
There is no break in sight, however, and there won't be over the All-Star Weekend, either. James already has hinted he will take part in All-Star Saturday, likely in the skills challenge competition. James finished second to Wade in the event last year, a night before he became the youngest All-Star MVP in history. He scored 29 points and had six rebounds in the East's 122-120 victory in Houston's Toyota Center. James had 13 points, eight rebounds and six assists in his All-Star debut in 2005 in Denver.
"It's always special to be a part of All-Star Weekend,'' James said. "I think the No. 1 reason is because the fans vote you in. It's the one opportunity in the NBA season where the fans can bring all the best players to one venue.''

Cavs defeat Warriors

2007-01-21T13:41:00.000+01:00

LeBron James scored 32 points and Larry Hughes had 15 as the Cleveland Cavaliers put an impressive finish on their seven-game road trip, rallying from a big halftime deficit for a 106-104 overtime victory over the Golden State Warriors on Saturday night.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 14 points and 11 rebounds as the Cavaliers snapped a three-game losing streak with an improbable late rally in regulation and a tenacious overtime, which ended with Stephen Jackson's 3-point attempt rattling in and out at the buzzer.
Cleveland spoiled the entertaining Golden State debuts of Jackson, Al Harrington and Sarunas Jasikevicius, who arrived in an eight-player trade with Indiana on Wednesday.
Jackson scored a season-high 29 points and Harrington had 14 points and 12 rebounds, but the Warriors' newcomers couldn't overcome the absence of guard Baron Davis, who served a one-game suspension for allegedly throwing a punch in Golden State's previous game.

2007-01-17T23:32:00.000+01:00

Carmelo Anthony can hear about his suspension when he walks down the street, turns on the television and perhaps calls to order a pizza. LeBron James figures that's enough. James said he has talked about five times with the Nuggets forward since his 15-game penalty was handed down Dec. 18 for his role in a Dec. 16 brawl. Never once has the topic been about the suspension. "Everybody else is talking about the suspension," James said after practice Monday in preparation for the Cavaliers' game tonight in Seattle. "It doesn't make sense for me to harp on it and ask him about it. . . . It doesn't make sense. No reason to talk about that. So it's just basic conversation." There won't be any conversation between the two Friday night at the Pepsi Center. Though it was supposed to be the seventh meeting between the two since the 2003-04 season, Anthony will be serving the next-to-last game of the suspension. "I'm happy," James said. "I'm excited. I don't have to worry about 32 points per game against me. I'll wait until he comes to Cleveland (on March 25)." James said Anthony "knows he made a mistake." He said players in the brawl let "emotion get the best of them" and "they're paying the consequences." James also won't see Earl Boykins on Friday. Boykins, a Cleveland native who works out with James during the summer, was dealt by the Nuggets to the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday. "It's kind of surprising," James said. "As well as he was playing for the Nuggets, it's kind of like they used him as bait. To play as well as he did and then he got traded . . . He didn't know nothing about it. They just traded him. . . . You got to know this is business. No job is secure in this world."

Cavs vs Clippers

2007-01-15T23:15:00.000+01:00

LeBron James scored 28 points and Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 20, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 104-92 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday night.
The Cavaliers, making the third stop on their seven-game road trip and coming off their most lopsided loss of the season in Phoenix, won for the ninth time in their last 11 games. Eric Snow finished with 18 points for Cleveland, which leads the Eastern Conference with a 23-13 record.
The Clippers, coming off a six-game road trip, got 22 points from reserve forward Corey Maggette. Chris Kaman had 20 points and nine rebounds, and Elton Brand added 16 points and 10 boards.
James was 10-for-23 from the field, two nights after attempting a season-high 28 shots in a 109-90 loss at Phoenix. The two-time All-Star, playing to the celebrity-sprinkled sellout crowd of 20,027 throughout the game, brought many of them to their feet with an exaggerated slam dunk that trimmed the Clippers' lead to 44-42 with 2:55 left in the half.
Reserve forward Quinton Ross, one of the Clippers' best defensive players, was a non-factor after picking up three fouls in his first 3 1/2 minutes on the floor. His third foul preceded a pair of free throws by James that gave Cleveland a 30-20 lead with 9 1/2 minutes left in the second quarter.

Ross got his fourth foul trying to defend a 3-point shot from the left corner by Damon Jones, who converted all three free throws with 1.7 seconds left in the third quarter to increase Cleveland's lead to 79-69. Jones then helped fuel a 11-2 run with a pair of 3-pointers, the second one giving the Cavaliers a 90-73 cushion with 6:36 to play.
All three referees called technical fouls in the first half. Joe Forte got Cleveland coach Mike Brown for arguing about a foul that wasn't called. Tommy Nunez Jr. nailed Clippers center Chris Kaman for slamming the ball in frustration against the basket support after Ilgauskas dunked over him. James Capers then gave one to Maggette for hanging on the rim too long after a slam dunk.

King of Sacramento

2007-01-10T22:19:00.000+01:00

LeBron James scored 34 points in the arena where he made his NBA debut, and the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied from a big second-half deficit for their eighth victory in nine games, 108-98 over the stumbling Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night.
James started slowly but scored 24 points in the second half as the Eastern Conference leaders erased a 17-point deficit with a 31-9 run in the third quarter of the opener on their seven-game West Coast road trip.
James then awed the hostile Sacramento crowd with three 3-pointers _ each longer than the last _ in four possessions early in the fourth to put the Cavs ahead to stay in their fifth straight win. Drew Gooden added 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas had 17 points and nine boards.
Mike Bibby scored 26 points and Brad Miller had 24 for the Kings, who followed up consecutive overtime losses to the Lakers and Portland with a dismal second-half effort to close a five-game homestand. Kevin Martin had 23 points and a career-high 10 rebounds for Sacramento, which was outscored 42-12 over a 13-minute span while getting outrebounded and outworked by the Cavaliers.
Cleveland beat the Kings 102-97 last season at Arco Arena, with James scoring 11 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter. James was an 18-year-old No. 1 draft pick when he made his NBA debut here on Oct. 29, 2003, scoring 25 points and playing splendidly in a loss.
Cleveland hadn't won back-to-back games in Sacramento since 1997-98.
Last season, the Cavaliers lost the first five games of a similarly epic Western road trip, but this season's team appears better prepared to handle the rigors of the road. The Cavs have won three straight road games for the first time in nearly a year, though they appeared to be in trouble in Sacramento until James heated up.
Bibby scored 20 points in the first half, and Miller's perimeter jumper was at its sharpest as the center made eight of his first nine shots, including two straight after halftime as Sacramento went up 61-44.
Ron Artest drew the defensive assignment against James, but got plenty of help from his teammates while limiting the All-Star to 10 points in the first half. But Cleveland scored the next 10 points after Sacramento went up by 17, and James hit back-to-back jumpers before Anderson Varejao's three-point play put Cleveland ahead 70-68 in the final minute of the third quarter.
James scored 13 points in about 4 minutes early in the fourth, but Sacramento got within 98-94 on Martin's 3-pointer with 1:14 to play. Gooden then completed a three-point play, and Artest bricked a 3-pointer to complete a 4-of-14 shooting night.
The Cavs even survived a nightmare performance by Larry Hughes, who scored 11 points on 3-of-16 shooting.

Notes: James caught up to Martin on a fast break and blocked his layup attempt from behind in the second quarter - though it appeared to be goaltending that wasn't called. ... Denver Broncos WR Javon Walker watched the game from courtside. ... The Kings play nine of their next 12 games on the road.

LeBron's full court shots

2007-01-05T17:55:00.000+01:00

Remember that digitally enhanced commercial a few years ago with LeBron James hitting practically full-court shots?
Wednesday night in Boston, he did it for real. His 83-foot shot at the end of the third quarter was the longest of his career and the third longest in NBA history, according to noted NBA statistical wizard Harvey Pollack.

Although the NBA doesn't keep official records on such things, Pollack, the 76ers director of statistical information who publishes an annual NBA yearbook, said there were only two longer shots in NBA history. Charlotte's Baron Davis hit an 89-foot shot on Feb. 17, 2001 at Milwaukee, and Chicago's Norm Van Lier hit an 84-footer on Jan. 19, 1977 at San Antonio.

James said Wednesday that he and Drew Gooden often try trick shots like that after practice.
"Today was one of those days that I got one off and it went in," James said.
The funny thing was, Boston coach Doc Rivers had yelled at his players at the end of the first quarter for not playing defense all the way to the end of the period.
"There are, like, basketball gods," Rivers said, "and they said, I'm going to show you what you can do with one second.'

LeBron James tattoo

2006-12-21T22:51:00.000+01:00

We all like tatoos, don't we?! Well, I do! Before you see the picture you must read this! :) I like Chinese symbols tattoo! And I would like them on my neck and my shoulder. Of course, these are the most common places for them, but what can I say... I like simple things. As I like the simplicity that LeBron plays with (other players!!).
What do you think about this tattoo? Personally, I don't like it... Share your thoughts with me...

There is a rumour that the tattoo on his back was there when he was born :) Cool

On His right bicep, LeBron has a rather elaborate design. The words "KING" and "JAMES" frame what appears to be the head of a lion or maybe a very hairy person. On the head sits a crown and over the mouth it says "Gloria" in honor of his mother

LeBron James girlfriend and son

2006-12-21T22:41:00.000+01:00

People know LeBron has a girlfriend... And that he has a son called LeBron James jr. (what an imagination!) , with his girlfriend. And many of you wonder how does she look like... And how does he (his son) Well, me too... I've seen many pictures, and many of them have different people on them... So, anybody that has a real picture, I would be happy if you can help me and write your e-mail in COMMENTS... I will contact you soon after that. Thank you

LeBron James Nike shoes commercial

2006-12-21T22:22:00.000+01:00

I would like to say something about players acting in their commercials. I'm not a fan of that, you know... I think they should get an actor doing that instead of them because they really suck!! But we can still laugh at them...

I'm not sure LeBron acts as well as he plays, but at least he tried :)

LeBron weighs in on brawl

2006-12-19T23:45:00.000+01:00

Let me ask you something... If You were in the fight, would you do what Melo did? Would LeBron do that?! Read on...

Denver Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony and others involved in a Madison Square Garden melee Saturday night will have to suck it up and live with the consequences, some members of the Cavaliers say.

On Monday, NBA Commissioner David Stern suspended Anthony (15 games), his teammates J.R. Smith (10 games) and Nene (1 game) and New York Knicks Nate Robinson (10 games), Mardy Collins (six games), Jared Jeffries (four games) and Jerome James (one game). The players were involved in a brawl that spilled over into the Garden crowd.

In addition, the league fined each team $500,000.

"The suspensions have to be given out. These are grown men,'' Cavaliers forward LeBron James said. "They're going to have to take their consequences. Take the suspension and be back on the court in no time.''

Center Zydrunas Ilgauskas said that the team knew that the penalties were coming and that they would be substantial, given that the fight took place in the commissioner's backyard.

At the same time, both James and Ilgauskas said they understood how something like that could happen. The fight broke out after Collins' hard foul on Smith in a game the Nuggets had turned into a blowout. It escalated when Anthony sucker-punched Jeffries.

"In a sense, you have to protect your teammate,'' James said of Anthony's hit on Jeffries. "It didn't look like an appropriate shot on Smith, so Melo being a leader has to protect his teammate.''

But James said there are ways to do that without turning it into something as ugly as what happened.

Ilgauskas agreed. "It's an emotional game. It doesn't matter if it's wrong or right, emotions take over,'' he said. "I've been in situations like that myself - you just lose your cool and stop thinking and obviously you look back and you wish you hadn't done those things.''

Emotions or not, James said, if the fight began because of the score, then the Knicks, as professionals, should have handled it better, even though they were getting pounded on the court.

"We're all NBA players. There's no such thing as a mercy rule in our league,'' he said. "We have to go out and play. We can't say we're up this amount of points, get your starters out. That's up to the opposing head coach. If you're getting blown out, you're getting blown out. You shouldn't get beat that bad. Don't try to blame the other team because you're losing that bad.''

Coach Mike Brown said that he doesn't have a rule on letting up on an opponent during a blowout.

"That's up to what the coach feels and what the organization feels,'' he said. "For me, I just want to win the ballgame. If that means I have to leave my starters in, I'll leave my starters in. If it means I have to pull my starters and sit them for 10 minutes, I'll do that.''

What everyone can agree on is that such incidents aren't good for the image of a league still recovering from the publicity surrounding a near-riot between the Indiana Pacers, Detroit Pistons and fans two years ago.

"I think that guys should have learned from Detroit. You don't want that to happen,'' James said. "I think (this fight) was more controlled because people didn't run up in the stands. They weren't going after fans or anything like that. I didn't want it to happen. Player-to-player is a lot better than player-to-fan. You don't want to escalate that bad.''

Ilgauskas said that fans shouldn't have to endure fights.

"People don't want to see that. People are watching with their kids and it's obviously the image the league doesn't want to see."

Cavs must have LeBron at full power

2006-12-16T15:16:00.000+01:00

The only time LeBron James went to the rim in the fourth quarter Monday night, both he and Tyson Chandler, who was defending the air up there, met in a vicious collision that left both sprawled on the floor, dazed.
It was ruled no foul, in one of the most abject abdications of refereeing responsibility since the squadron of blind mice who worked the Pittsburgh-Seattle Super Bowl.
Chandler was giving James, who didn't score in the fourth quarter, a tutorial in the school of hard knocks. A player expects a reward from the refs for attacking the rim. He doesn't expect the back of the hand.

James had only 15 points and shot only one free throw in Oklahoma City Monday. It was another game the Cavs had no business losing, but did. Three Hornet starters were out with injuries.
James says that he likes contact and that he loved football as an all-state wide receiver in high school more than basketball. Last year, he led the NBA in "and one's," the smash-fest that is also called "three the old fashioned way," by converting the foul shot after a basket.
On the surface, nothing much has changed. With one-quarter of the Cavs' season finished, James goes to the foul line 9.2 times per game. Only Allen Iverson (11.6), NBA Finals MVP Dwyane Wade (11.2) and Boston's Paul Pierce (9.8) shoot more.
All three are also better foul shooters. Wade is the lowest at 80.4 percent. James makes only 70.3 percent. They make opponents pay for fouls more than James, who admitted during an appearance on "The Late Show" with David Letterman that his free throws needed improvement.
James also ventured the observation then that sometimes he didn't think anybody could stop him.
But fatigue can.
Punishment can, too.

LeBron, get thee up to the basket

2006-12-08T19:31:00.000+01:00

CLEVELAND - It is a cliched plea, a call heard by basketball stars for decades and a common fix-it for broken offenses.
It has reached that status because it usually is both simple and effective. It is the issue facing LeBron James right now.
With the Cavaliers undergoing some turbulence -- four losses in six games to be exact, largely because of offensive deficiencies -- there is a call to action for the resident superstar. It goes like this: "Go to the basket more.''
Easier commanded than achieved, of course, but the technical and artistic data show the Cavs simply get better on offense the more James attacks the glass and get worse when he doesn't.
Compared with last season, when James had one of the most prolific offensive years in franchise history, he isn't getting to the basket as much. According to data provided by stats Web site 82games.com, a higher percentage of James' shots this season are jump shots, and he's shooting 5 percentage points lower (37 percent) than last season's 42 percent.
The stats also reveal that when James goes inside and takes anything but a jumper, he shoots 73 percent, up from 69 percent last season, and he is drawing more shooting fouls than he did a year ago.
Translation: James is more effective going to the basket than ever, yet he is doing it less. No wonder his scoring average is down about four points a game and his shooting percentage has also slipped a few points early in the season from last year's levels.
It is hard to say legitimately that James needs to do more on offense for the Cavs. But the plain truth is he has not been as effective as he was last season.
Consequently, the Cavs have failed to crack 87 points in three of their recent losses.
"I've got to try to be more aggressive,'' James said. ``I need to look for my shot more and see what happens, look to getting into the flow more early. I try not to force things. (Going to the basket) can work. There are pros and cons.''
In the victory over the Atlanta Hawks last week, James opened the game by driving to the hoop. He scored 14 points in the first quarter, making four layups and a short four-foot jumper and also drew three shooting fouls. The offense flourished and the Cavs ended up getting 11 assists in their first 14 baskets as they piled up 106 points on the way to a victory.
It was just the best example of a truism: The Cavs are better offensively as a group when James is attacking. Which is why teams make it as hard as possible for James to get to the basket and why it may be his greatest challenge.
In an unexpected twist, when James is off the floor, the Cavs have been faring better than ever. Over the past nine games, when James has taken his rest during the first half of the second quarter, the Cavs have outscored their opponents by 21 points. Over the whole season, the Cavs are plus-7 when James is on the bench in the second quarter.
When James is in the game, when all look for him to be the offensive leader, the numbers suggest the team is more sluggish. Perhaps his teammates lean on him to be the catalyst for everything. There are broad schematic and personnel issues that contribute, but there is no denying that the Cavs go as James goes.
"He's our guy. He sets the tone for everything we do,'' coach Mike Brown said. "He sets the tone for practice, he sets the tone for games, for shoot-around. When you're in his shoes, Tim Duncan's shoes, Kevin Garnett's shoes, Kobe Bryant's shoes, Dwyane Wade's shoes... those guys set the tone. But he can't do all by himself, but we have to be led by LeBron.''

LeBron helps rookies on court

2006-11-29T22:03:00.000+01:00

When LeBron James speaks, the Cavaliers understandably listen.
That's true even on small levels, such as last week, when he questioned why the Cavs would debut their orange throwback jerseys on the road. Within 24 hours, the Cavs were on the phone with the NBA office getting permission to wear the throwbacks for the next home game. Those are minor details; just think of James' influence on the major ones.
James has been dropping hints publicly -- and making statements privately, according to team insiders -- that he'd like to have more court time with rookies Shannon Brown and Daniel Gibson. Especially Gibson.
In the past week, coach Mike Brown has increased the rookies' playing time. Just a few hours after James suggested following the loss to the Indiana Pacers that there should be lineup changes, Shannon Brown was in the starting lineup in place of David Wesley. Also, coach Mike Brown is beginning to give Gibson meaningful minutes off the bench in place of Wesley and Eric Snow.
"You only can grow up in this league if you're on the court,'' James said. "In this league, you have to play.''
Wednesday in Toronto, Gibson was on the court as the Cavs tried to win the game in the fourth quarter. Several times, James looked for him on offense, passing him the ball. It was hardly rookie treatment, and it was a message that James wants to see what Gibson can do.
Gibson missed the clutch shots, but all he got was encouragement Wednesday and again Friday when he was in for key moments of the loss to the Pacers. He scored 14 points in 30 minutes in those two games with some impressive overall shooting.
"I just think (Gibson) is going to be a very good point guard in our league. It was a steal for us to get him in the second round,'' James said. "I was glad to see him fail against Toronto; that was good for him. It was an excellent decision (to play him). As he grows, I want to play with him more.''
Mike Brown, like most NBA coaches, has gone with experienced veterans over unstable rookies in the early going. There is always temptation -- especially among fans and the media -- to see what new players can do. Now, though, No. 23 wants a look, and he's probably going to get it.

LeBron James COMPLETE biography

2006-11-20T22:36:00.000+01:00

LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. His mother, Gloria James, was only 16 at the time. His biological father, Anthony McClelland, was an ex-con uninterested in being a parent. Gloria raised LeBron on her own, and to this day he goes by her last name.

Life was often a struggle for LeBron and his mother. Gloria battled personal problems during much of his childhood. Some of those were brought on by the death of her mother, who passed away when LeBron was an infant. Bouncing between retail and accounting jobs, Gloria was never able to land steady work, and she and LeBron moved from apartment to apartment. The pair got to know all the seedier neighborhoods of Akron, a city of more than 200,000 located less than a hour south of Cleveland.

Despite her failings, Gloria worked hard to be a loving mother and shield LeBron from the poverty and violence of the streets. This was no easy chore, and at times made her choice of boyfriends seem puzzling. When LeBron was two, she started dating Eddie Jackson. In and out of trouble with the law, he went to prison in 1990 for aggravated cocaine trafficking. (In 2002, he pled guilty to mortgage fraud and mail fraud.) Nevertheless LeBron formed a bond with Jackson, and Gloria liked having a man around who was willing to serve as a father figure. Her brothers, Terry and Curt, also helped out.

From an early age, LeBron showed tremendous instincts for basketball. Gloria gave him a miniature hoop and ball when he was an infant, and he amused himself for hours each day with the toys. LeBron also had the genes necessary to spawn a long-limbed basketball phenom. Though Gloria stands only 5-5, she has relatives who are much taller.

The strain of the James' nomadic lifestyle began to take its toll when LeBron entered elementary school. Embarrassed by his home life, he didn't make friends easily. And thought he wanted to do well in school, focusing on his studies was difficult. He found an outlet for his emotions and intelligence in sports. Basketball and football were his favorites. By now LeBron had developed into a superb athlete. In addition to his natural speed, quickness and strength, he could think his way around the court or gridiron. His hero was Michael Jordan, and he patterned his hoops game after his idol's. LeBron liked taking it to the hole, as well as launching jumpers, but he took a special delight in distributing the basketball to his teammates.

In football, LeBron usually played receiver. He scored 19 touchdowns in six games in his first year of Pee Wee football. His coach was Frankie Walker, a man who would soon have a profound effect on his life. After the season ended, Walker began hearing stories that his young star, now a fourth-grader, was missing school on a regular basis. He soon discovered that LeBron had all but dropped out. Walker confronted Gloria, who admitted that her son needed a more stable living environment. They agreed that Lebron should move in with Walker and his family.

LeBron quickly took to his new surroundings. Walker and his wife, Pam, had three kids, Chanelle, Frankie Jr. and Tanesha. Everyone in the household, including LeBron, was responsible for daily chores. The structure did wonders for him. As a fifth grader, he received his school's attendance award.

Walker also had a positive impact on Lebron's basketball. Among other things, he taught the youngster how to shoot with his left hand.

After 18 months of living separately from her son, Gloria took him back. But when financial problems arose, LeBron returned to the Walkers. Eventually they worked out an arrangement to help Gloria pay her rent. Walker and his wife wanted to ensure that LeBron always had a place in the Akron area he could call home.

For LeBron, another advantage of living with the Walkers was his friendship with Frankie Jr. The two ran with four other boys: Sian Cotton, Dru Joyce III, Willie McGee and Romeo Travis. Together they formed a terrific team on the basketball court. On Sunday nights they gathered at the Akron Jewish Community Center, where Keith Drambot, the former head coach at Central Michigan University, put them through their paces.

LeBron and Dru, who played point guard, became extremely close friends. In fact, when LeBron was 12, he spent most of that summer living with Joyce's family.

It didn't take long for LeBron and his crew to gain recognition around Akron. They learned the fundamentals of basketball from Drambot and developed tremendous chemistry with one another. Literally and figuratively, LeBron was head-and-shoulders above his friends. By the eighth grade he was six feet tall, could play all five positions and had a sixth sense for the game.

Calling themselves the Northeast Ohio Shooting Stars, LeBron and his pals, coached by Joyce's father, made a splash on the national scene in 1997 by qualifying for the Under/6th Grade AAU National Championships in Salt Lake City, Utah. Two years later they went all the way to the AAU Under/8th Grade final, in Orlando, Florida. The Shooting Stars won their first five games to set up a showdown with the Southern California All-Stars. They lost a heartbreaker, 68-66, but LeBron was the big story with his sparkling play.

By then LeBron, Joyce, Cotton and McGee, the self-proclaimed "Fab Four", had arrived at a decision. They were a package deal, and pledged to continue their hoops careers together. The foursome settled on Saint Vincent-Saint Mary High School, a parochial school in downtown Akron. Best known for its tradition of academic excellence, SVSM was about to establish a new legacy, with LeBron leading the way.

Before he hit the hardwood, LeBron buckled up his chin strap as a wideout for SVSM football coach Jay Brophy, a former NFL linebacker who spent time with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets. The freshman made his varsity basketball debut weeks later on December 3, earning a spot in the Fighting Irish starting backcourt. The decision to go with LeBron was an easy one for Keith Drambot, who had recently been hired as SVSM's coach. Wearing Jordan's number 23, LeBron, now 6-3, contributed 15 points in a blowout over parochial rival Cuyahoga Falls.

With LeBron and Maverick Carter (his cousin and an all-state senior) headlining a talented team, the Fighting Irish posted a perfect 27-0 record and captured the state championship, the school's first since 1984. LeBron averaged just under 20 points, shot better than 50 percent from the field and was among the team leaders in rebounds, assists and steals. His instincts were amazing considering his age, and he demonstrated that intangible quality of making everyone else on the court better. Rumor had it that IMG, the Cleveland-based representation firm, was already putting out feelers to him.

The summer after his freshman season saw LeBron continue to improve. But the biggest change came off the court, where he grew nearly four inches, to 6-7. LeBron now looked more like a man than a boy.

LeBron played another year of football at SVSM in the fall of 2000, racking up more than 700 yards receiving. He was named All-Ohio, but the Fighting Irish finished at a disappointing 4-6.

As LeBron prepared for the basketball season, word began to spread that SVSM had a bona fide phenom on its hands. Expecting a huge crowd for their 2000-01 season opener, the Fighting Irish scheduled the game at the University of Akron's James A. Rhodes Arena. Some 5,000 fans packed the house. LeBron paced SVSM to an easy victory, and the team rolled from there.

The Fighting Irish faced their stiffest test against Oak Hill Academy during a tournament in January. The Warriors, led by center DeSagna Diop and swingman Rashaad Carruth, were the nation's top-ranked prep squad. LeBron and his teammates entered the contest undefeated. In a classic, Oak Hill barely hung on for a 79-78 victory. But in what was becoming a habit, LeBron stole the show. With a small army of NBA and college scouts in attendance, he torched the Warriors for 33 points, nailing bombs from beyond the 3-point arc, hitting on leaners in the lane and finishing the break with rim-rattling dunks. LeBron actually could have won it for SVSM, but he missed a pair of free throws late in the fourth quarter and his desperation jumper at the buzzer rimmed out. The Fighting Irish rebounded from the defeat in impressive fashion. They ran the table the rest of the regular season, then stormed through the state playoffs for their second straight title. The final, played at Ohio State's Jerome Schottenstein Center, attracted a sellout crowd of more than 17,000, including North Carolina head coach Matt Doherty and California head coach Ben Braun. LeBron, who poured in 54 points in his team's two playoff wins, was a no-brainer as tournament MVP.

LeBron began the summer after his sophomore year in Colorado Springs at the USA Basketball Development Festival. The first underclassman ever invited to the camp, he broke the festival scoring record with 120 points in five games and was named MVP.

At his next stop, adidas' ABCD Camp at Fairleigh-Dickinson University in New Jersey, LeBron officially arrived on the national scene. Going into the week, the player attracting the most attention was Lenny Cooke, a 6-8 forward from New York.

Cooke, who was planning to enter the NBA draft, was completely overshadowed by LeBron, who took control of the camp. With a camera crew from ESPN's The Life following his every move and college and pro scouts looking on, he flashed his full offensive arsenal and played suffocating defense. But what blew away everyone were LeBron's passing skills. Up until this point, most had labeled him the next Jordan. Now comparisons to Magic Johnson started.

Still, at times during the camp, LeBron seemed almost bored by the competition, and his focus wavered. It was when challenged that he shone brightest. He first turned heads in a featured game for underclassmen. The contest's MVP, he tallied 22 points, seven assists and four rebounds. Later he matched up against Cooke in a showdown anticipated by everyone at the camp. Cooke tried to set the tone on an early possession, dribbling between his legs several times before nailing a 3-pointer. But LeBron got the last laugh. He hit for 24 points, held Cooke to just nine, and drilled a 25-footer at the buzzer to deliver a last-second victory.

After the ABCD camp, a rumor, floated in The New York Times and helped along a little by LeBron, surfaced that he was thinking of declaring himself eligible for the NBA draft after his junior season at SVSM. While he eventually denied the claim, it contributed to the growing legend of King James." After running a feature on the 16-year-old, SLAM recruited him to pen a regular column for the hip-hop hoops magazine.

Meanwhile, Michael Jordan invited LeBron to join him in an exclusive workout, where he scrimmaged against the likes of Antoine Walker, Michael Finley, Juwan Howard and Penny Hardaway. LeBron struck up a friendship with Walker, a product of Chicago's Mt. Carmel basketball factory, and still counts him among his most trusted advisors.

When LeBron returned home, he strapped on the pads for his junior year of football. Gloria was opposed to the idea, afraid he might get injured and jeopardize his hoops career. But LeBron persisted. After sitting out the opener, he hauled in three scoring passes a week later. Despite a steady dose of double-coverage, LeBron wound up with 52 receptions for more than 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns. SVSM, meanwhile, experienced a tremendous turnaround, going 7-3 and qualifying for the state playoffs. In the Fighting Irish's first post-season game, a 28-20 victory, LeBron fractured the index finger on his left hand. He chose to keep the injury quiet and take the field for the state final. SVSM lost, and LeBron suspected he had likely played his last football game.

The junior immediately turned his attention to the hardwood. By now speculation about his future was running rampant. With a solid B average, he would probably have his choice of colleges. On his short list were Cal, Florida, Michigan, Ohio State, North Carolina and Duke. But many questioned whether LeBron was really considering college. Though a good student, he was a basketball player first and foremost. And with the hype around him building, he was being exposed more and more to the trappings of life as a pro. Eddie Jackson raised eyebrows by buying him a Ford Explorer. His name appeared in newspaper headlines across the nation. Nike and adidas were in a fierce battle to sign him. Reports said the final offer could reach $20 million.

Against this backdrop, LeBron began his junior basketball season. In as coach for SVSM was Dru Joyce, the father of LeBron's best friend and the team's point guard. The Fighting Irish faced one of the toughest schedules in the country. Indeed, nearly half of the school's opponents were ranked nationally. LeBron and his teammates opened against Germantown (Pa.) Academy, which featured a pair of stars, Lee Melchionni and Matt Walsh. Thanks to LeBron's 38 points and 17 rebounds, SVSM won 70-64. Next, at the JAR Arena, the Fighting Irish registered a 49-41 victory over Vashon of St. Louis and their shifty point guard, Jimmy McKinney. LeBron led the way with 26 points.

SVSM rode the momentum from those victories into the Slam Dunk to the Beach, a Christmas tournament held in Delaware. There the Fighting Irish fell for the first time, an 84-83 loss to Amityville of New York. LeBron almost gave his team a dramatic win with a four-point play near the end of regulation. But Amityville followed with two free throws to seize the lead for good. Weeks later, in a game against local rival Brush, LeBron felt like he was back on the gridiron. Roy Hall, a well muscled guard headed to Ohio State on a football scholarship, bodied him all over the court. LeBron responded with a grinding defensive effort, limiting Hall to eight points in an easy victory.

In February SVSM suffered its first two-game losing streak since LeBron joined the team. The first defeat came in a highly anticipated rematch with Oak Hill, at the Prime Time Shootout in Trenton, NJ. Though LeBron sizzled with 36 points, it wasn't enough to overcome the Warriors and their top gun, Carmelo Anthony, who poured in 34. The Fighting Irish were beaten again a week later by George Junior Republic of Pennsylvania.

The pair of losses did nothing to diminish LeBron's reputation. Kobe Bryant, hoping to lure the teenager to adidas, gave him a special pair of sneakers decorated with American flags. While in Cleveland to play the Cavs, Shaquille O'Neal caught one of LeBron's games at the JAR Arena.

The Fighting Irish, meanwhile, embarked on a new winning streak that fueled another run to the state final. In front of 20,000 screaming fans on the Ohio State campus, however, they failed in their quest for three titles in a row, losing 71-63 to Roger Bacon of Cincinnati. LeBron, who battled back spasms all night long, wasn't at his best, and his teammates were unable to pick up the slack.

LeBron finished the year averaging 28 points, six assists and just under nine rebounds. An All-American on everybody's list, he was named National Player of the Year by Gatorade, USA Today and Parade Magazine. But LeBron wasn't completely satisfied with his season. His greatest cause for concern was the drop in his 3-point shooting (34%) and free throws (59.3%). He resolved to spend extra time in the gym working on both areas.

Among those who believed LeBron's game didn't need much tinkering was Cavaliers coach John Lucas. He had seen him in an AAU tournament the previous summer, and got to know him personally because LeBron often hung out at Cleveland's Gund Arena. Ignoring NBA rules, Lucas invited the 17-year-old to an informal workout with the Cavs. LeBron impressed with dunks over Jumaine Jones and Chris Mihm, but again it was his ability to see the court and make pinpoint passes that attracted the most oohs and aahs.

The practice session earned Lucas a $150,000 fine from the NBA and got him suspended for two games. But he felt he got off cheap. Watching LeBron up close and personal was more than worth the penalties handed down by the league.

LeBron had plans for a full summer of hoops, but was sidelined after breaking his left wrist in an AAU game. He still made the rounds at all the major camps and displayed a devilish sense of humor when he showed up at adidas' ABCD wearing a pair of Nikes, then donned adidas shoes for the Nike All-American! During his downtime, LeBron worked on his endurance with a personal trainer. He also reflected on how much basketball meant to him. When he returned to the court, friends and family noticed a fresh bounce in his step.

They also noticed the circus the teenager's life had become ,not that everyone, including LeBron, wasn't participating in the spectacle. SVSM struck a deal to broadcast all 10 of its home games throughout northeast Ohio on pay-per-view at $7.95 a pop. ESPN2 agreed to televise the school's December contest against Oak Hill. Season-ticket packages for the Fighting Irish at the JAR Arena soared to $125.

At this stage of the game, it was becoming rather obvious to just about everyone who knew LeBron that he would soon be playing in the NBA and probably bypass college. Eager to maximize her son's earning potential, Gloria enlisted Eddie Jackson to assume full control of Team LeBron. They took meetings with all comers, fielding offers that promised to make LeBron a millionaire several times over. The competition between adidas and Nike also heated up. Word was that LeBron's asking price was up to $25 million.

The Fighting Irish opened the 2002-03 season after Thanksgiving, at home against Wellston. With 2,000 spectators crammed into the SVSM gym, LeBron led his team to a a 46-10 lead before a storm literally turned out the lights on the game. The following night, the Fighting Irish exacted their revenge against George Junior Republic, employing a devastating full-court press that keyed a 101-40 blowout. LeBron was fantastic, posting 21 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists and four steals.

Less than two weeks later SVSM registered another satisfying victory, defeating Oak Hill 65-45. With Dick Vitale and Bill Walton doing the game for ESPN2, LeBron enjoyed another big night, going for 31 points and 13 rebounds. A staggering 1.67 million households tuned into the contest.

SVSM won four more before LeBron's birthday in December. Among those who wished a happy 18th to him were Allen Iverson and Jerome Bettis. But problems soon developed. To celebrate her son's birthday, Gloria secured a bank loan and bought him a Hummer H2 (base price $50,000), complete with three televisions. The gift caused a huge controversy. SVSM and the Ohio High School Athletic Association considered suspending LeBron. The media, meanwhile, launched a national debate that questioned him, his mother and the wisdom of foregoing college for the riches of the NBA.

LeBron and the Fighting Irish, however, kept right on chugging. SVSM traveled to Los Angeles to square off at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion against Mater Dei High School, in another ESPN2 broadcast. Billed as a matchup between LeBron and D.J. Strawberry, a forward headed for Maryland and the son of former big-league slugger Darryl Strawberry. In an entertaining game, the Fighting Irish won 64-58. Though he missed all nine of his 3-point attempts, LeBron still managed to score 24.

A month later LeBron found himself in hot water again, this time for accepting two retro NBA jerseys worth $845 from a sports store. The OHSAA acted with little hesitation and rescinded his eligibility. But LeBron fired back, hiring lawyer Fred Nance to get the ban lifted. Nance requested an injunction in the Summit County Common Pleas Court, and judge James R. Williams ultimately reinstated LeBron. The ruling came just in time for him to play in the Prime Time Shoot Out in Trenton. He showed no ill-affects from the legal tussle, scoring 52 points in a 78-52 shellacking of West Chester of Los Angeles.

The entire episode grabbed national headlines. People who had never heard of LeBron, indeed, people who had no interest in high school hoops, suddenly were familiar with the details of his life. It was at this moment that the 18-year-old transcended his sport and passed into the realm of popular culture.

From there LeBron tried to concentrate on basketball, and did a pretty good job of it. SVSM entered the state playoffs with just one loss, then returned to the Division II final against Kettering Alter. In front of a tournament-record 18,454 fans at Ohio State's Value City Arena, the Irish held a slight lead heading into the fourth quarter. That's when LeBron took over, he scored his team's first nine points of the final stanza to spark SVSM to a 40-36 victory. Pushing their record to 24-1, the Irish reclaimed the state title and tightened their grasp on the mythical national high school hoops championship awarded by USA Today.

Next on LeBron's agenda were the 26th annual McDonald's All-American High School Boys Basketball Game at Gund Arena and the EA Sports Roundball Classic in Chicago. The McDonald's game has produced 15 top overall picks in the NBA draft, which sets up another likely headline-making moment for LeBron. As the league's surefire number-one pick, he along with the rest of the world will learn the location of the next stop on his basketball odyssey at the draft lottery.

Among the teams hoping for a lucky bounce of the ping-pong ball were Cleveland, Denver, Memphis and Toronto. Some even suggested that the Cavs dealt Andre Miller knowing the trade would weaken their club and thus improve their chances of landing the ultimate hometown hero in the draft. If that was indeed the team's strategy, it worked. Cleveland got the top pick and grabbed LeBron. Though his contract with the Cavs was slotted in by the league's rookie salary structure, he had no worries about money. In fact, estimates put his endorsement deals (with the likes of Nike, Coca-Cola and Upper Deck) at $100 million.

The lights glared, the expectations rose and the pressure intensified in LeBron's first season with the Cavs. Of course, he had been performing under similar conditions most of his life. But he was also cashing a paycheck every couple of weeks and taking mega-dollar endorsement fees to the bank for the first time. Critics were concerned that this windfall might rob LeBron of perspective and hinder his ascent to the stratosphere of pro hoops.

But the teenager remained focused. A team player from the opening of training camp, he averaged 21 points, six assists and more than 5 rebounds per game. In turn, he helped lift Cleveland from cellar-dweller to playoff contender. The Cavs ended the season at 35-47, a marked improvement over the previous year's performance.

Cleveland also got solid contributions from Carlos Boozer and Zydrunas Ilgauskas, both of whom provided muscle in the paint. The Cavs juggled the roster midway through the campaign, sending Ricky Davis and Chris Mihm to Boston for Eric Williams and Tony Battie. Jeff McInnis was another in-season pick-up who made an impact. Cleveland battled the Celtics tooth-and-nail for the final playoff spot in the East, but was egded out by a single game.

LeBron was the number one reason for the team's turnaround. After getting his feet wet early in November, he strung together 11 games with double-digit scoring, and finished the month with a 33-point, 16-rebound effort against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron continued his fine play through December and January, then suited up in the Rookie Challenge Game during the All-Star Weekend. He led the newcomers with 33 points, but the sophs won the contest behind Amare Stoudemire.

Heading down the stretch in '04, when many rookies hit the proverbial wall, LeBron played perhaps his best ball of the year. In late March against the New Jersey Nets, he exploded for 41 points and 13 assists in a 107-104 victory. He posted two more double-doubles in April.

Those types of performances stayed in voters' minds when it came time for Rookie of the Year balloting. Though Carmelo Anthony also had a big season, LeBron beat out his buddy and walked away with the hardware. Along the way, he aslo accepted an invitation to represent the U.S. on the 2004 Olympic men's basketball team. At 19, he'll be the youngest member of the squad in Greece.

Off the court, LeBron displayed the type of dignity and class that veterans twice his age are known for. He answered every question thrown at him, kept his nose clean and quietly lent his support to plenty of charitable causes, including a generous donation earmarked for the rennovation of an old Akron court in the Ed Davis Community Center where he played as a kid.

After only one year in the pros, this much is certain: LeBron's story will remain among the most-followed in the history of sports.

There's nothing LeBron can't do, at least on the amateur level. In the pros, his challenges will be more complex, his competition more experienced. At approximately 6-7, 240 lbs, he has never divulged his vital stats, he has the body to survive what his sure to be a tough rookie season. His quickness and strength are off the charts, his court vision and ballhandling skills are highly developed, and his rebounding and defense aren't far behind.

Scouts agree that LeBron's passing ability is nothing short of extraordinary. He not only sees the whole court, but anticipates the movement of teammates and defenders. The weakest part of LeBron's game is his outside jumper. His range is excellent, but he must become more consistent on the perimeter. It will be interesting to see how his shooting changes with the arduous NBA schedule.

LeBron's willingness to share the ball and get others involved is one of the things coaches love about him. His unselfishness underscores his innate understanding of basketball and how fully he embraces the fundamentals. It also leads many to believe that LeBron will be extremely coachable and earn him big minutes from the moment he dons an NBA jersey.

Timberwolves vs. Lebron

2006-11-17T19:59:00.000+01:00

Guarding LeBron James is a challenge perhaps unlike any other in basketball. He has a unique blend of size, strength, speed, shooting ability and passing skills.
So, how exactly will the Timberwolves try to stop, er, contain James in tonight's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers? Timberwolves assistant coach Bob Ociepka, who focuses on defense, broke down the game plan and provided insight into trying to slow perhaps the world's best player.
Ociepka previously was an assistant with the Milwaukee Bucks, who are in the same division as James' Cavaliers. Here are Ociepka's keys to stopping James:
1. Break him down
"When he's out in transition, he's impossible to stop. You have to get back on defense. It can't be just the guy guarding him. It can't be just Trenton (Hassell, the Wolves' defensive specialist), it's got to be people behind him to help Trenton. If LeBron does get out in transition, make him give up the ball if you can. Take away those coast-to-coast drives to the basket."
2. contain, no lane
"We just have to contain him, keep him out of the lane and provide help with our bigs so that they're shrinking the court so that he sees bodies in the lane. Make him a passer and then recover to the guy he passes to. Donyell Marshall and Damon Jones are spotted up wide, so you have to recover in time if they get the ball."
3. outside is fine
"He's going to hit some, but if he gets into the lane, you're helping, and you're freeing big guys for offensive rebounds. Drew Gooden goes to the glass. Zydrunas Ilgauskas is so long he can keep balls alive on the glass. If you make LeBron a jump shooter, you've got a better chance of containing the big guys and taking away their second shots."

LeBron giving food

2006-11-16T22:45:00.000+01:00

Akron native, Cleveland Cavalier and NBA All-Star LeBron James continues to give back to his hometown and other communities.

James -- through his nonprofit James Family Foundation -- is again assisting families in need over the Thanksgiving holiday in four Ohio cities -- Akron, Cleveland, Columbus and Youngstown -- and Biloxi, Miss.

James will donate more than 2,500 turkeys and other groceries Friday through Monday.

The James Family Foundation, which is headed by James' mother, Gloria James, will distribute vouchers for the Thanksgiving giveaways through community partners in each city.

``Everyone should be able to share a special holiday meal with their loved ones,'' said Gloria James. ``My family has been very blessed, and we want to share with less fortunate families.''

In Akron, vouchers are available at the Akron Urban League (330-434-3101) or Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home (330-535-1543). Those with vouchers will get their food at Henry's Acme, 1525 Plaza Blvd., Akron.

In addition to the funeral home, other local sponsors are Henry's, FirstMerit Bank and Sprite.

The James Foundation also continues to help victims of Hurricane Katrina in Biloxi, Miss., re-establish their lives.

Sitemap

2006-11-15T01:24:00.000+01:00

LeBron, get thee up to the basket
LeBron helps rookies on court
LeBron James COMPLETE biography
Timberwolves vs. Lebron
LeBron giving food
Cavs vs. Hawks
Wizards vs Cavs
LeBron James dunks over Damone Jones
Seasons change for James
LeBron James picture and wallpaper
After Rochester
LeBron sits in Rochester
LeBron James shoes
LeBron NBA stats
LeBron in Rochester
Allposters.com affiliate
LeBron high school stats
LeBron interview
Did you know...
LeBron in Playoffs
LeBron NBA career
LeBron High School Life
LeBron life before high school
Can I write about You, LeBron?

Cavs vs. Hawks

2006-11-09T20:41:00.000+01:00

LeBron James got another taste of the latter Tuesday as his actions in the final moments of the Cavaliers' overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks were called into question. After he missed a 3-point attempt with about 15 seconds to go and the Cavs down nine points, James slowly walked off the court and toward the locker room while the Hawks dribbled out the clock at the other end of the floor. He eventually turned around and stood at the end of the floor when the final horn went off.
Though his actions didn't seem egregious to those in attendance, they were mentioned by the Hawks' radio network and later picked up by various national radio stations. By Wednesday afternoon, it had been filtered into various ESPN outlets and James was being compared to former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Randy Moss, who left the field before a game was over two years ago.
``The game was over. It wasn't like I walked to the locker room,'' James said in response Wednesday. ``You're down seven points with three seconds left, there's no miracle in the world that is going to make you come back. This ain't Rock-n- Jock. There's no seven-point plays in our game.''
James chalked up the response to his moves being over-analyzed.
Indeed, of much more consequence to the outcome was James' missing six free throws, which helped the Hawks overcome a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to force overtime.
``We missed a few wide-open shots that we usually make,'' James said. ``We've got to be able to close out games. We can't be up like that and lose it at home.''

Wizards vs Cavs

2006-11-03T09:55:00.000+01:00

LeBron played just fine, not as well as he can, and Cavs won their first game in 2006/07 season! Wizards were beaten 94-97.
Shooting 11/24 from the field (2/4 3p), scoring 2/6 free throws, he put in 26 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and had 5 assists. He also had 5 turnovers, and 2 blocks.

LeBron James dunks over Damone Jones

2006-10-30T22:10:00.000+01:00

OH MY ........ OH MY......... :)

Seasons change for James

2006-10-25T18:55:00.000+02:00

Retaining franchise players in the NBA is never easy. Roster juggling is ongoing.
The 12-man roster surrounding franchise player LeBron James when the Cavaliers open their season one week from tonight against the Washington Wizards will be decidedly different than the one that complemented James when he began his NBA career 36 months ago in Sacramento.
The lone survivor from that roster is 7-3 center Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Little-used reserve forward Ira Newble was on the injured list when James burst onto the NBA scene with 25 points, nine assists, six rebounds and four steals in a 106-92 loss to the Kings.
The starters in Sacramento: James, Ilgauskas, Ricky Davis, Carlos Boozer and Darius Miles. The reserves: J.R. Bremer, Kevin Ollie, DeSagana Diop, Chris Mihm, Michael Stewart, Jason Kapono and Jelani McCoy.
"We were completely dominated my rookie year," James said.
Maybe so, but the Cavaliers went from a 17-55 record in 2002-03 to 35-47 in James' rookie season.
James, Ilgauskas, Drew Gooden, Eric Snow and Larry Hughes will start when the Cavaliers tip off their 37th season at The Q against Washington.
The reserves on the 15-man roster: Donyell Marshall, Damon Jones, Anderson Varejao, Sasha Pavlovic, David Wesley, Scot Pollard, Shannon Brown, Daniel Gibson, Dwayne Jones and Newble.
"The general manager (Danny Ferry) is secure with his job and the coach (Mike Brown) is not looking over his shoulder," Ilgauskas said. "It is a good situation, right from the top."
Ferry added veterans Wesley and Pollard, along with rookies Brown and Gibson, to a team that took the Detroit Pistons seven games before losing in the second round of the playoffs last season.

LeBron James picture and wallpaper

2006-10-21T00:30:00.000+02:00

Here are some links to LeBron's picture galleries...

Allpostres.com pictures

Picture gallery on Starpulse

Picture gallery on allstarz.hollywood.com

After Rochester

2006-10-21T00:18:00.000+02:00

The fans who bought tickets in Rochester wanted to see LeBron James. But they didn't. Despite chants of "We want LeBron!," Cleveland coach Mike Brown nailed his James to the bench, even though he wasn't hurt.
Today, Brown and James are Public Enemies No.1 and No. 2 in western New York. And they shouldn't be.

The NBA should take the blame.
It's a given that head coaches will not play their star players in every pre-season game. The idea of pre-season is to give the organization an idea of what they have, and where everyone will eventually play. It used to be that the pre-season schedule in every professional sport was also about getting the players in top shape for the regular season. But no more. Players spend much of the off-season training hard and are generally close to game shape by the time the regular season begins. Given that, the last thing a coach wants is to burn out his best players before the regular season.
The NBA has to know this, and when they give the green light to back-to-back pre-season games for Cleveland (Tuesday in Cleveland and Wednesday in Rochester), they should know that LeBron James isn't going to play the second game.

It's just common sense. Brown would be an idiot to play him.
It was the NBA, not the Cavaliers, who ripped off the fans in Rochester.

LeBron sits in Rochester

2006-10-19T18:32:00.000+02:00

LeBron James received a loud ovation when he sauntered toward the Cleveland Cavaliers bench at Blue Cross Arena just before the start of Wednesday night's NBA exhibition game against the Toronto Raptors. The royal treatment of King James didn't last long... Booos filled the field when he was left out of the game. Angry spectators shouted:
"LeBron is overrated!"
"We like Melo better!"
"LeBron isn't worthy of the no.23!"
LeBron responded: "I got to focus on my health right now and how I feel. I can't worry about, you know, how this guy is looking forward to seeing me play or anything like that."

Cavs general manager Danny Ferry said he and coach Mike Brown made the decision not to play LeBron here against Toronto because they didn't want to use him in back-to-back exhibitions. It's obvious Cleveland's precocious hoops legend was needed more in that 41-point romp against Maccabi Elite Tel Aviv than in the 103-81 loss here against the Raptors.

LeBron James shoes (sneakers)

2006-10-15T22:18:00.000+02:00

These are my favourite colors of LeBron James shoes:

Nike Zoom 20-5-5

Nike Zoom LeBron III

Nike Zoom LeBron II 2

Nike Zoom Generation Low and Mid

Nike Limited Edition LeBron James Air Force 1

LeBron NBA stats

2006-10-14T00:06:00.000+02:00

I couldn't find a picture of LeBron's NBA stats, so here are some links:

NBA.com stats

Stats on Yahoo

LeBron in Rochester

2006-10-13T20:10:00.000+02:00

After 20 years, on Wednesday, October 18, NBA is coming back to Rochester! Cavs are playing a preseason game against Raptors there and LeBron is going to be the main attraction. 8000 fans have already bought the tickets and they won't be satisfied if LeBron stays on the bench (there is speculation that James will skip playing in Rochester because he'll play the night before in Cleveland against Maccabi Tel Aviv and coach Mike Brown doesn't want him to "work" back-to-back nights).

"If LeBron had an injury, no one would expect him to play in an exhibition game here or anywhere. But he's 21 years old and apparently in the peak of health. He has boasted that he never gets tired. Playing 15 minutes or so in Rochester Wednesday night obviously wouldn't compromise his performance in the regular season or shorten his career. The next exhibition for the Cavaliers will be Saturday, Oct. 21, so James would have plenty of time to rest."

The point has been raised that the Cavaliers are carrying extra players and want to see them perform before the final cut.

Allposters.com affiliate

2006-10-11T22:48:00.000+02:00

I proudly announce that I've just become an official "Allposters.com" affiliate. It means that whenever someone buys a poster from that site (redirected from mine), I get a provision!

Click Here to Buy Sports Posters!

LeBron high school stats

2006-10-11T00:06:00.000+02:00

View full size

LeBron interview

2006-10-03T18:29:00.000+02:00

The plain dealer, October 03, 2006

The Cavaliers begin training camp today. LeBron James, who is entering his fourth season, will try to lead the Cavaliers to the playoffs for the second straight year. James met with the media on Monday and answered an array of questions.

On the upcoming season: "We can win it all. We've just got to play well. Trying to win the whole thing is what's on my mind. There's no reason to play in the NBA if you don't think you can win it all."

On signing a three-year extension this summer instead of four: "I have to do what I feel comfortable doing. The Cavs understood where I was coming from. I'm not going anywhere soon. I'm locked down for a few more years, and I'm very excited [about the next few years]. It was all about business and making sure my business is run the right way, and it was a great business move for me."

On new additions Scot Pollard and David Wesley: "Scot's going to bring some aggressiveness that we needed in the interior, and David Wesley will bring us another outside shooter and a guy that can play some defense."

On expectations this season compared to last season: "Last season was all about making the playoffs and that was our main goal. This year, it's about winning a championship."

On what he learned during last year's playoffs: "Every possession counts. You can't take one possession off. You really feel it if you gamble or you don't rotate on defense or you miss a layup . . . every possession counts."

On having lunch recently with billionaire Warren Buffett: "He's probably one of the best men I've ever met and it was the greatest experience I ever had . . . he's one of the most level-headed guys I know. It was a great experience."

On the possible wear and tear of playing in the World Championships: "Just being in shape and maintaining my diet and how I eat will help. I know how my body reacts to being tired and not being tired. I'm in the best shape I've been in a long time. I'm not worried about getting injured or wearing down during the season."

Did you know...

2006-10-02T23:15:00.000+02:00

...his biological father, Anthony McClelland, was an ex-con uninterested in being a parent?
...his mother gave him a miniature hoop and ball when he was an infant?
...Though Gloria, his mother, stands only 5-5, she has relatives who are much taller?
...LeBron lived a nomadic lifestyle when he was young?
...he didn't make friends easily because he was embarassed of his home life?
...in football, LeBron usually played receiver?
...moved in with his coach Frankie Walker during his elementary education?
...he had a perfect score (27-0) on his first high-school season?
...Michael Jordan invited LeBron to join him in an exclusive workout during high school?
...he petitioned the NBA for early admission into the draft?

LeBron in Playoffs

2006-09-29T23:41:00.000+02:00

On March 29, 2006, the Cavaliers clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 1998. In just three years, James had transformed the Cavaliers from a lottery team (17-65 the season before he arrived) into a playoff contender, ending the 2005-2006 season with a 50-32 record, 4th in the Eastern Conference.
On April 22 James made his playoff debut against the Washington Wizards and recorded a triple-double, with 32 points, 11 assists and 11 rebounds in the Game 1 victory. He became the third player in NBA history to register a triple-double in his playoff debut, joining Johnny McCarthy (1960) and Magic Johnson (1980). On April 28 in Game 3, he became the first player to score over 40 points in his first playoff road game, with 41 in a win over the Wizards. The Cavaliers won the series 4 games to 2, and James tallied 35.7 points per game while shooting 51% from the field. His scoring average is third all-time behind Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for a player's first playoff series.
James led the Cavaliers to a 3-2 series lead over the defending Eastern Conference champion and divisional rival Detroit Pistons. The Pistons, however, eliminated the Cavs by winning the final two games.
James averaged 30.8 ppg, 8.1 rpg, and 5.8 apg in his first ever playoff appearance in the NBA.

LeBron NBA career

2006-09-27T19:37:00.000+02:00

Rookie season
In what was one of the most anticipated NBA drafts in recent memory, James was the first overall pick of the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Because of immense public interest in James, he became an instant celebrity. Even before James played a single NBA game, he was awarded an unprecedented $95 million shoe contract by Nike.
In his first NBA game, he came up with a steal and a fast-break dunk for two points. That lead the way to netting 25 points, nine assists, six rebounds, and four steals on 12-of-20 shooting in his first regular season NBA game against the Sacramento Kings. He went on to win Rookie of the Year honors. He finished his rookie season with 20.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, joining Oscar Robertson and Michael Jordan as the only three players to average at least 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game in a rookie season. The Cavaliers improved by 18 wins in his first season, but failed to make the playoffs.

2004-05 season
In the offseason, James played for Team USA in the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece where he and his teammates won the bronze, the first time an American Olympic team using NBA players failed to win the gold. Due to coach Larry Brown's preference for experienced players, James' minutes on the court were limited.
In the 2004-2005 season, James became the youngest player to register a triple-double and the youngest player to score 50 points in one game (56 points in a loss to the Toronto Raptors), making his first All-Star team in the process. James's season averages also improved drastically (27.2 ppg, 7.4 rpg, and 7.2 apg). He joined a select group of players to average over 25 points, 7 assists and 7 rebounds in a season and was the youngest on that list by far. Again, the Cavaliers failed to reach the playoffs (lost the tie-breaker to NJ), finishing two games over the .500 mark.

2005-06 season
The Cavaliers made several off-season moves in the summer of 2005, adding Larry Hughes (from the Washington Wizards), Damon Jones (from the Miami Heat) and Donyell Marshall (from the Toronto Raptors). The Cavs' front office underwent substantial management changes at this time as well. Long-time owner Gordon Gund sold the franchise to Dan Gilbert, who subsequently replaced General Manager Jim Paxson with former Cavs player Danny Ferry, and brought in Mike Brown as the new head coach.
At the 2006 NBA All-Star Game, James led the Eastern Conference team to victory with a 29-point, six-rebound performance. He was awarded the game's MVP, becoming the youngest player to do so.
James finished the season with 31.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, 6.6 assists and 1.6 steals per game, joining Oscar Robertson, Jerry West and Michael Jordan as the only players in NBA history to average at least 30 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in a single season. James also became the youngest player in NBA history to average at least 30 points per game in a season. One of James' highlights in the season was going for nine straight games with 35+ points. The only other players since 1970 to accomplish that feat were Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.

MVP candidacy
Following the 2005-2006 regular season, James was one of the top candidates for the NBA Most Valuable Player Award. He was third in the league in scoring, and a close second in the league in PER(player efficiency rating) behind Dirk Nowitzki. He also finished first among forwards with 6.6 apg and 31.4 ppg. James finished second to Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns in MVP voting.
James was awarded co-MVP honors with Nash by The Sporting News, an award given by that publication based on voting of the thirty General Managers in the league.

LeBron High School Life

2006-09-26T00:33:00.000+02:00

Freshman year
James attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio. He was the starting point guard on a team led by James' future best friend and manager Maverick Carter. Although Carter is commonly referred to as James' cousin, they are not actually related. With James at the point and the primacy of Carter, the team cruised to a perfect 27-0 record and won the Division III state championship. James averaged 18.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.

Sophomore year
James took over the helm of the team after Carter's graduation and averaged 27.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and four steals for SVSM en route to another state title. He was subsequently named Ohio's "Mr. Basketball"and selected to the USA Today All-USA First Team — the first sophomore to be so honored.
An avid football player in addition to basketball, James was also able to add to his resume the distinction of being First-Team All-State as a wide reciever for his high school team. However, injury concerns influenced James to concentrate solely on basketball.

Junior year
In James' third year of high school his stats improved even further. He averaged 29.7 points and 8.4 rebounds, and was once again named Mr. Basketball Ohio. In addition, he again found a spot on the All-USA First Team, and was named the 2001-02 Gatorade National Boys Basketball Player of the Year. It was then that his nickname "King" James would become a household staple in Ohio.
In his junior year, he appeared in Slam Magazine which was the beginning of his nationwide exposure.

Dubbed "The Chosen One" by Sports Illustrated, James was the first high school basketball player on the cover since Rick Mount. However, the St. Vincent-St. Mary basketball team failed to defend its state title when it moved up to the more challenging Division II and lost to Cincinnati's Roger Bacon High School. James attempted to declare for the NBA Draft, petitioning for an adjustment to the NBA's rules of draft eligibility, which then required the completion of high school by a prospective player. The petition was unsuccessful, but it led to an unprecedented level of attention on him as he entered his senior year. By then, "King" James had already appeared on the covers of Sports Illustrated and ESPN The Magzine. His popularity soared to new heights, forcing his team to move from their playing at the school gym to the nearby James A. Rhodes Arena at the University of Akron. Celebrities such as Shaquille O'Neal attended some of the games, hoping to get a glimpse of the prodigious young basketball player. A few of James's high school games were even televised nationally on ESPN2 and regionally on pay-per-view.

Senior year
Gloria James touched off a firestorm of controversy when she was allowed to use her son's future earning power as collateral to secure a bank loan to buy an $80,000 Hummer H2 for her son's 18th birthday, prompting an investigation by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). Under the OHSAA guidelines, no amateur may accept any gift valued over $100 as a reward for athletic performance. When James later accepted two throwback basketball jerseys worth $845 from NEXT, an urban clothing store in Shaker Square, in exchange for his posing for pictures to be displayed on the store's walls, OHSAA stripped him of his eligibility. James appealed and a judge blocked the ruling, reducing the penalty to a two-game suspension and allowing him to play the remainder of the season. However, James's team was forced to forfeit one of their wins as a result.
Despite the distractions, the Irish won a third state title, and James, for an unprecedented third time, was named Mr. Basketball Ohio and to the All-USA First Team. He earned MVP honors at the McDonald's All-American Game, the EA Sports Roundball Classic, and the Jordan Capital Classic. Although it was a foregone conclusion, by participating in more than two high school all-star events, James legally lost his NCAA eligibility.

LeBron life before high school

2006-09-24T15:22:00.000+02:00

Everybody knows basic things about LeBron, when he was born an that... So I give you a short story about his childhood...

LeBron Raymone James was born an only child in a low-income area of Akron, Ohio to the unwed Gloria James on December 30, 1984. His mother was only 16 at the time and six months shy of graduating from high school. Due to his family's humble circumstances, James, being raised solely by his mother and her associates, led a transitory lifestyle, moving frequently from one home to another. Things began to look up for him when his mother began seeing a man by the name of Eddie Jackson. James was young enough at the time to have him serve as a father figure; he did not have any contact with his biological father. Jackson would often be seen supporting James later on at his high school basketball games. Starting as early as his junior year in high school, James had made it clear he was planning to pursue an NBA career following his graduation...
Stay tuned for more info about The King!

Can I write about You, LeBron?

2006-09-24T11:59:00.000+02:00

Am I qualified to do so? (Read this and then tell me of you disagree :-)
Let's start!

You all know what this blog is gonna be about: our favourite NBA player LeBron. What about him? His bio, stats, pictures... Usual stuff... BUT it's going to be a little cooller that the other ones. And you know why? Because I'm a player for 9 years now so I guess I know a few things about basketball, huh?
So, if anyone knows LeBron, tell him to visit this blog and leave a comment (that would be great for site's progress)!
'Till next time!