A Homecoming Fit for A King
Photo by Corey Guy
By Corey Guy
CLEVELAND – The iconic chalk toss from Ohio’s native son LeBron James kicked off the 71st edition of the NBA All-Star Game.
The ovation for James was thunderous in Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse during the introduction of the starting lineups for the 2022 All-Star Game. The last time an All-Star Game was played in Cleveland, James was 13 years old. Now at the age of 37, the kid from Akron is back.
The kids from Akron reunited at All-Star weekend in Cleveland ?
(via @twithersAP) pic.twitter.com/o1DveeBXau
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 19, 2022
James has played in 18 All-Star games and is a three-time MVP. However, this year it’s even more special for James. As captain, he’s playing for his charity, the Kent State I Promise Program, which offers students scholarships.
James finished the game with 24 points, eight assists, and shot 45% from the field. In the closing moments of the game, the hometown hero hit the go-ahead fallaway jumper to win the game by reaching the target score of 163 points and securing $450,000 for his charity.
"It's only fitting, right?"
LeBron James lifts #TeamLeBron to victory in Cleveland ?#NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/wYdAVrQRP7
— NBA (@NBA) February 21, 2022
Throughout the weekend there was a major emphasis on James’ future in the league.
“My last year will be played with my son,” James told The Athletic. “Wherever Bronny is at, that’s where I’ll be. I would do whatever it takes to play with my son for one year. It’s not about the money at that point.”
It was a historic weekend for James and his family. Alongside a meaningful All-Star game win, he was also recognized among the top 75 players of all time.
LeBron and MJ
What a moment ? pic.twitter.com/QzhLEUuOOr
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 21, 2022
This homecoming for James was a memorable one. It was an important moment for the city of Cleveland and an even bigger occasion for the NBA celebrating its 75 years. There is no better liaison for the city of Cleveland and basketball than the King himself.
