‘Changed the Whole Organization Overnight’: Phil Handy Recalls LeBron James’ Impact on Cavaliers
Follow Us
When the bright-eyed LeBron James joined the Cleveland Cavaliers as the first overall draft pick in 2013, fans already knew that he was the most touted player since Shaquille O’Neal to be a part of the franchise. And before they knew it, from being irrelevant in the league, the Cavaliers became legitimate championship contenders. The success that Cleveland had with Bron didn’t come without its ups and downs, but his presence truly changed the way the Cavaliers were viewed.
LeBron James brings brilliance with him
In just four years, Bron’s prime performances had propelled the Cavaliers to their first NBA Finals appearance in 2007. Even though they were swept by the San Antonio Spurs, Cavs fans rejoiced about how far they had come, and there was no going backward from here.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
There was already enough evidence for everyone to believe that Bron would be their savior and carry the franchise to its first title. And they were not wrong, but it did come with its complications. After seven years of Bron helping Cleveland, the team came close to a championship many a time only to be sent packing. Bron was tired and, to everyone’s surprise, even announced that he was taking his talents to South Beach.
Trending
Shaq Makes Big Claim That Can End LeBron James’ Future With Lakers After Nuggets Series
April 17, 2024 06:48 PM EDT
Possible Shohei Ohtani Ban From MLB Has Shaq Questioning $700 Million Contract
April 16, 2024 05:20 PM EDT
7’4 Victor Wembanyama, Accused of Disrespecting Knicks Star, Gets MVP Shout-Out From Unbothered Jalen Brunson
April 19, 2024 02:58 PM EDT
Why Is Gabbie Marshall Not Invited to the 2024 WNBA Draft Despite Graduating From Iowa?
April 13, 2024 06:21 PM EDT
Is Dawn Staley Married? Details on South Carolina Coach’s Love Life and Special Bond With Lisa Boyer
March 16, 2024 06:41 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
After achieving immense success in Miami Heat and winning two rings, it wasn’t enough. LeBron’s lifelong dream of winning one with his home team was still unfinished, and so the prodigal son returned. Joining forces with Kyrie Irving was enough for him to make the Cavs the 2016 NBA champions.
‘Sticks Up Their A–es’ – Channing Frye Reveals How He Brought LeBron James and Cleveland Cavaliers Closer Together
What Bron wanted to improve on when he returned
In a recent interview, Phil Handy spoke about how LeBron completely changed the face of the Cavaliers. He stated, “Man, that changed the whole organization overnight. We went from being a young team to try to figure out how to win games and then catapulting to the finals.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Handy was the assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers back then and he didn’t know LeBron very well. But the common denominator between him and the players was their work on the floor. So when Phil asked what Bron wanted to improve on when he returned to Cleveland, Bron told him, “I want to get better at everything.”
Handy spoke highly about LeBron’s caliber and also said, “For somebody of his caliber, that man is a student at the game and he wants to be coached. He wants to be uncomfortable and continue to get better every day, even at this point.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
There is no denying Handy’s statement. There is a reason Bron is called ‘The Chosen One’. He continues to amaze the league with what he brings to the table even at this age. The Cavaliers would not have had a legacy if Bron had given up on them.
WATCH THIS STORY: John Wall-Bradley Beal, LeBron James-Kyrie Irving & Other NBA Brotherhood Moments