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LeBron James joined the Miami Heat on this day in 2010. He made the announcement thirty minutes into a program titled “The Decision,” which came as the ultimate shocker to Cleveland Cavaliers fans.
Although he was a free agent at the time, the manner with which he shared the news was uncouth and seen as a betrayal because he was joining their rivals. LeBron James later realized his mistake and apologized.
Regardless, his move to South Beach ushered in an era of player empowerment, where players had a greater influence on who joins the roster. LeBron James made it clear that his move to the Miami Heat was the perfect opportunity to compete for championships alongside two All-Stars, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh.
The start of player empowerment and creation of superteams with LeBron James at the helm
LeBron James is officially returning to Cleveland. In the second season of deal, James will have a player option. https://t.co/VBhDCTWBIN
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) July 9, 2015
Dan Gilbert, the Cleveland Cavaliers owner who was very vocal about LeBron James’ disloyalty in 2010, caved to the superstar’s demands. James’ first demand was unconditional spending, which resulted in the Cavaliers ranking second in team salary that year after trading in veterans like J.R. Smith, Kevin Love and Kyle Korver.
How player empowerment has impacted the NBA
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