The Two Most Overlooked Facts About LeBron James' Decision

With all the post-reaction analysis going on right now, I can't say I'm  surprised that people have conveniently overlooked two key realities in this decision.

And I can understand why. The road from rejection always is initially crossed emotionally before it can be swallowed rationally. Meanwhile, the media specializes in scrutinizing players whom they build up in exaggerated glory. Ah, the fickle media. They build you up only to make the fall from grace ever more painful.

But let's move those dynamics out of the way for a second.

While everyone is so quick to vilify LeBron James, remember one key fact.

Fact No. 1: LeBron wanted to come back to Cleveland

Only days ago, LeBron tried recruiting Chris Bosh. Everything was in place. The Cavs had a deal with Toronto. LeBron would achieve his goal of having a dominant caliber team. And guess what? Bosh didn't want to go to a small market after leaving one in Toronto. 

Ultimately, LeBron was ready to stay and finish what he started. But with the growing disparity in talent between the haves and the have-nots, he also knew he couldn't sacrifice his own personal goals of success for loyalty. If history has shown anything, it's that loyalty only works in an equally-beneficial relationship. And let's face it—Cleveland needed LeBron more than he needed them. And despite that, he still wanted to stay and make good. While everyone can bark and moan about how LeBron left the first chance he could, just remember that he did make an effort to bring Chris Bosh to Cleveland. He wanted to stay. And when his efforts became fruitless, he had to look out for himself.

Fact No. 2: LeBron is Learning Kevin Garnett's Lesson

The most profound words that came out of LeBron's mouth last night were: "Individuals can make themselves superstars but teams make champions."

LeBron clearly saw what Kevin Garnett experienced in Minnesota. Garnett was adored there. He was LeBron before LeBron. And he stayed loyal to the team only to see the team attempt to get rid of him once his value lessened. Because, as I stated earlier, it is only natural that loyalty is only maintained in equally beneficial relationships. 

Free agency is a selfish period. The narcissism of how it was conducted only goes hand in hand with the nature of our times, and it's self-promotional theme. Don't blame LeBron. Thank Jay-Z and Lil Wayne.

One last thing I want to mention is that some may wonder why LeBron chose Miami over Chicago. I think friendship was ultimately the determining factor. He built a bond with Wade and Bosh on draft night and it was deepened during the Olympics.

So, as this LeBron/Miami Thrice story gets pumped up in the media for the next four or five days, everyone should remember these two facts when they look back on LeBron's decision.

To Cavs fans, I'm sorry. I know this hurts and I can't even imagine how much. But you will pick yourselves up, just like you have time and again. Don't let this be a confirmation of some ridiculous curse. Let it be a proclamation of your city's incredible resolve.