Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers found out LeBron James' decision like the rest of us did

Basketball fans around the world found out LeBron James’ decision to play for the Cleveland Cavaliers when the star forward posted a well-written, heartfelt letter announcing his choice on SportsIllustrated.com.

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But basketball fans weren’t alone. The Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers, who have long represented the front runners to sign James this summer, also found in LeBron’s letter. LeBron simply wanted to tell the Ohio fans first, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.

Here’s how James began the letter:

"Before anyone ever cared where I would play basketball, I was a kid from Northeast Ohio. It’s where I walked. It’s where I ran. It’s where I cried. It’s where I bled. It holds a special place in my heart. People there have seen me grow up. I sometimes feel like I’m their son. Their passion can be overwhelming. But it drives me. I want to give them hope when I can. I want to inspire them when I can. My relationship with Northeast Ohio is bigger than basketball. I didn’t realize that four years ago. I do now."

This is LeBron James making right with the city he left in devastation four years ago. It’s clear that this was driving force behind his ultimate decision to return home, as well.

"I want kids in Northeast Ohio, like the hundreds of Akron third-graders I sponsor through my foundation, to realize that there’s no better place to grow up. Maybe some of them will come home after college and start a family or open a business. That would make me smile. Our community, which has struggled so much, needs all the talent it can get."

LeBron is Cleveland’s favorite’ son… again.

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Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers found out LeBron James’ decision like the rest of us did

By Sam Richmond | Jul 11, 2014