Back on Feburary 7 of 2023, LeBron James, made history, when he dethroned Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, to become the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. James and the Los Angeles Lakers were hosting the Oklahoma City Thunder on that historic night for “The King”. February 7 will be the day that will always be remembered for NBA fans, and especially, LeBron James.
Something did seem off though on that night… LeBron James, as expected, was very emotional after making history. You can blame it on the frustration of the game against the Thunder but, Anthony Davis, who was recruited to the Lakers by LeBron, didn’t seem too interested in showing too much appreciation in the moments after his teammate made history.
Maybe I’m just being a homer for the Cavaliers but, LeBron’s moment didn’t seem as big in Los Angeles as it could’ve been. Was it due to the fact that the franchise has had so many memorable greats? For instance ; Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and recently James. Was this moment in Los Angeles just another moment to Laker fans?
LeBron James will always have roots to Cleveland, and the Cavaliers, whether or not fans want to face the facts or not. James broke the curse for Cleveland sports and returned to Cleveland, following his national decision back in 2010 that brought him to the Miami Heat. James played in Cleveland for 11 seasons, the Heat for four seasons, and currently in his fifth season with the Lakers.
The reason I am believing though that LeBron is missing Cleveland (or at least parts of it), is due to the fact that in Los Angeles he was honored during the game moments after passing Kareem, but that was about it.
Cleveland would’ve had a statue ready or would’ve within the next few months for LeBron to recognize this incredible achievement in NBA history, hell, while driving around town the following day I saw a billboard that congratulated LeBron and had his current points number (and counting). The point that I’m making is simple, LeBron breaking the all-time scoring record would’ve been a huge deal in the Cleveland area.
Maybe I am a bit biased, due to the fact of living in Cleveland, and not having a background in Los Angeles by any means, but it definitely seems like Cleveland was extremely proud.
If LeBron broke the all-time scoring record while playing for the Cavaliers, do you believe the reaction would’ve been different? Let us know on Twitter @WeLikeSportzPC
-Payton Vince
@PaytonVince
*Photo courtesy of AP News*

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