Cleveland Cavaliers majority owner Dan Gilbert knows one day in the future, the Cavaliers will retire LeBron James’ signature No. 23 jersey.
In a statement released Monday, Gilbert reminisced over James’ career in Cleveland and sent well-wishes to the former first-round pick who promised to bring a championship to Cleveland.
James, a four-time league MVP, became an unrestricted free agent Friday after informing the Cavaliers he wouldn’t exercise his $35.6 million option and agreed to a four-year, $153.3 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers Sunday.
Gilbert wrote it’s impossible for anyone affiliated with the Cavaliers or from Northeast Ohio to forget the excitement and emotions surrounding the 2016 NBA Championship James helped bring to Cleveland.
“None of this would have happened if LeBron James did not agree to come back home and lead the Cavaliers to the promised land,” Gilbert wrote. “The entire Cavaliers franchise thanks LeBron for that precious moment and for all of the excitement he delivered as he led our team to four straight NBA Finals appearances.”
Gilbert went on to wish James and his family the best in the new chapter of their lives and thanking James for his impact on the area.
Gilbert's entire statement can be read here.
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