A Change of Character: The Curious Case of LeBron James.
Six months ago LeBron James was considered the NBA’s Jay-Z. His relationship with the rapper turned mogul went beyond friendship. They shared many of the same character traits. James, like Jay-Z, was popular, beloved, and respected by all. A two time MVP, he was already a superstar trekking down the road to legendary status.
Up until the week before the “decision”, LeBron’s career arc had followed in the footsteps of Jay’s. LeBron was quiet yet sincere when he spoke. He was fun loving yet seemed motivated to dominate his industry. Demanding yet not overbearing. Most of all, his “brand” had achieved worldwide fame yet was always loyal to his ‘hood’. James, much like Jay, created his image and his empire on playing it safe. Jay never did anything risky, he never did anything to steal the limelight, he never tried to get your attention and for that he always had your attention. Never and ill moment, never in ill light, always shinning bright.
What in this world made LeBron want to wander off the road that a legend paved and drive his talents down to South Beach? What made LeBron dump Jay-Z for Jay’s other protege; Kanye West?
Kanye West? Yup, that’s exactly who LeBron James has become. Mr. I-Dont-Give-A-Fuck. Mr. Whats-He-Gonna-Say-Next. Mr. Center-of-Attention. Kanye does things just because he can, not because he should. He says things that get him the most attention not the most esteem. Kayne doesn’t care about your opinion about him as long as you cut the check. Welcome to this world, LBJ.
As a basketball move, LeBron made the smartest move he could. Miami’s top 3 now trump those of any other team in the league. With Championship pedigree running the front offices, the only question we all have is not when they will win but how many.
As a PR move it was disaster at first. He did momentarily put the NBA above the NFl and the ratings for “The Decision” were ungodly figures.The damage won’t be seen in LeBron’s bank account because, as they say in Hollywood, all publicity is good publicity. If nothing else, the 2010-11 NBA season will be one of the most anticipated of my lifetime. The damage won’t be seen in LeBron’s stats. He will continue to put up great numbers along side the multiple championships he is bound to win.
The real damage has already hit hard where it might hurt the most; his legacy. If LeBron ever had a chance to seize Michael Jordan’s title as the G.O.A.T., he choked. A proverbial air ball in the final seconds of a game seven. Fame is fleeting and money comes and goes, but legacy is eternal and that’s one thing LeBron’s countless advisors, handlers, and “business-partners” never took the time to explain to him.

Well, LeBron, I’m really happy for you and your new team, and I’m gonna let you finish your career out before I really judge, but you could have been the greatest of all time! OF ALL TIME!
Peace,
@Suga_Shane