LeBron James is returning to Cleveland to play for the Cavaliers.
In an article posted Friday exclusively to Sports Illustrated, James writes very clearly: “I’m ready to accept the challenge. I’m coming home.”
James quickly followed suit on his personal Instagram:
In 2010, James infamously spurned his home city to join Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade in Miami. In four seasons, James led the team to four straight Finals appearances and two titles.
The road to a third title for James may be a bit bumpier in Cleveland. James is not making any guarantees about delivering Cleveland a much-desired title:
I’m not promising a championship. I know how hard that is to deliver. We’re not ready right now. No way. Of course, I want to win next year, but I’m realistic. It will be a long process, much longer than it was in 2010. My patience will get tested. I know that. I’m going into a situation with a young team and a new coach. I will be the old head. But I get a thrill out of bringing a group together and helping them reach a place they didn’t know they could go. I see myself as a mentor now and I’m excited to lead some of these talented young guys. I think I can help Kyrie Irving become one of the best point guards in our league. I think I can help elevate Tristan Thompson and Dion Waiters. And I can’t wait to reunite with Anderson Varejao, one of my favorite teammates.
Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, who blasted James in 2010 for leaving Cleveland, addressed James’ return on Twitter:
Welcome Home @kingjames. I am excited for the fans and people of Cleveland and Ohio. No fans and people deserve a winner more than them…..
— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) July 11, 2014
James next stop is Brazil to watch Sunday’s World Cup Final between Germany and Argentina.
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