LeBron James swept into Northeast Ohio's consciousness when as a High School student in Akron, he shattered school and state basketball records. Today, the basketball phenom is the centerpiece of the NBA. After seven seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers, James announced his decision to sign a five-year contract with the Miami Heat on July 8, 2010.
Early Life:
LeBron Raymone James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, the only child of young single mother, Gloria James. The tiny family struggled financially and moved frequently within the Akron area.
High School:
LeBron attended St. Vincent - St. Mary High School in Akron. He excelled in sports, setting basketball records and helping his team win the Division III championship in his freshman year. In his sophomore and junior years, he was named Ohio's "Mr. Basketball." The multi-talented James was also chosen All-State 1st team wide receiver in football his junior year.
LeBron with the Cavaliers:
The 6'8", 240 pound James was chosen the first draft pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003. The 19-year old was immediately offered a $90 million contract by Nike, before he even played a single game. He didn't disappoint. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2003/2004, the first Cavalier and the youngest player to win that honor. In the 2007 regular season, he averaged 26.2 points per game, with 7.90 rebounds.
Career Highlights:
- NBA All-Star Game MVP: 2006, 2008
- 4-time NBA All-Star: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
- All-NBA: Second Team: 2005
- NBA All-Rookie First Team: 2004
- NBA Rookie of the Year: 2004
- TSN NBA Rookie of the Year:2003-2004
- NBA regular-season leader, field goals made: 2005 (795)
- NBA regular-season leader, minutes played: 2005 (3,388)
- McDonald's All-American: 2003
- McDonald's All-American Game MVP: 2003
- Bronze Medal Winner, Team USA, 2004 Olympics
LeBron after the Cavaliers:
LeBron James announced his decision to sign with the Miami Heat and leave the Cleveland Cavaliers during a live broadcast on ESPN July 8, 2010.
Personal:
LeBron James is the father of two children, LeBron James Jr born October 6 2004 and Bryce Maximus James born June 14, 2007, with his longtime girlfriend Savannah Brinson.
LeBron has a multi-million dollar home in Bath Township. Although he will be playing for Miami, Lebron has indicated that he intends to live in NE Ohio during the off-season.
(last updated 7-9-2010)
LeBron has a multi-million dollar home in Bath Township. Although he will be playing for Miami, Lebron has indicated that he intends to live in NE Ohio during the off-season.
(last updated 7-9-2010)
