Notwithstanding New York Knicks winning the match 95-90, Cleveland Cavaliers' fans cheered and celebrated. The reason? LeBron James was home.
An emotional ovation, along with a deafening roar by the fans, welcomed James to the floor Thursday night. James came back where he started from, The Associated Press states, ABC News reports.
More than 20,000 fans cheered with unparalleled energy the moment the Cavaliers public address announcer Olivier Sedra shouted, "From St. Vincent St. Mary ...," USA Today reports.
Four years ago, when James left for Miami, his people back in Cleveland were "heart-broken". But, almost four month ago, he announced, "I'm coming home," and a shift in balance of power was evident. He was again playing in front of family and friends.
For some time, it was almost like the old days, but Cavaliers' as well as James' performance didn't really match the hype. He finished with 17 points, five rebounds, four assists and eight turnovers.
"Well, first of all, that was an emotional night for him without question. He wanted badly to win the game and help the team play well. His effort was there. His efficiency was not what it normally is. That was obvious. We have to do a better job of getting him things in motion," Cavaliers coach David Blatt said.
The Knicks fell behind early in the game, but made up for it in the second half. Every time the Cavaliers got within a single score, Carmelo Anthony (25 points, six assists) and J.R. Smith (11 points, seven assists) led the Knicks to come up with a huge basket so as to preserve their lead, the Wall Street Journal reports.
But, Thursday's game was not about the performance. It was about Cavaliers' welcoming their boy home. Of course, a victory would have been icing on the cake, but it didn't really matter.
"I just tried to stay focused and maintain. ... Obviously, it was a special night," James said, further adding that it was difficult because of the hype surrounding his return.
