LeBenedict James is quickly learning that history does not remember traitors well. In an effort to improve LeBron’s image (and protect their shoe selling investment), Nike has produced a new ad that is intended to make Mr. James’ decision appear a little less traitorous.
But sports fans do not remember defectors well. Look at Brett Favre and Alex Rodriguez and Roger Clemens – all the best in the business in their respective sports at one time or another, but who left their original teams via free agency after not delivering what they had promised. (Granted Brett Favre won a Super Bowl, but he still tarnished his legacy by playing elsewhere…oh, and by text messaging.)
On the other end of the spectrum, you have Cal Ripkin, Jr., John Elway, Ted Williams, Mike Schmidt, Tim Duncan, Paul Pierce, Mickey Mantle, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, etc.- all who have played their entire careers for the same team and who have been rewarded with loyal fans.
There are, of course, cases like Michael Jordan and Wayne Gretzky, who played with other teams later in their careers, but that was after bringing multiple championships to their original team. LeBron has done no such thing.
So, now that the Cleveland Cavaliers’ owner has responded, the fans of Cleveland have responded with an ad of their own. Enjoy.
(HT: JW)
Filed under: sports, Uncategorized | Tagged: alex rodriguez, betrayal, Brett Favre, Cal Ripkin, cavaliers, cleveland, John Elway, Jr., Kobe Bryant, lebron james, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Mickey Mantle, Mike Schmidt, nike, Paul Pierce, Roger Clemens, Ted Williams, Tim Duncan, traitor, Wayne Gretzky, youtube | 1 Comment »
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