LeBron James Receives Warm Welcome by Heat Fans on Christmas
MIAMI -- One of the major talking points leading up to the hyped clash between the Cavaliers and Heat on Christmas Day was in regards to how LeBron James would be received by Miami fans when his name was announced in pregame introductions.
When "LeBron James" rolled off Heat PA man Mike Biamonte's tongue, there was obviously significantly less oomph than fans were accustomed to. But they reacted the same as they did in each of the last four epic seasons, drenching the world's best player -- now wearing wine and gold -- with intense cheers and a slight, barely noticeable side of boos. To the likely surprise of many nationally, they chose the classy, respectful route in his first return back to Miami since choosing Cleveland last summer.
Maybe fans were following the lead of Heat star Dwyane Wade when he pleaded with them to show LeBron appreciation initially but to "do what you've got to do" once the ball was flug in the air at midcourt.
"The man helped take us to places we've only been once before he got here," Wade said earlier this week. "I think he should be received very well for that at the start of the game. And then when the game comes on, then do what you've got to do."
Heat fans certainly followed the instructions of the 11-year Heat veteran, because the initial jubilation directed at their former king didn't hold for long. On LeBron's first touch, the cheers simmered and the boo birds sang. Not that anyone could blame them. After all, he's no longer draped in red and black.