The LeBron James Maturation is Obvious

The Cleveland Cavaliers have not only added the best player in the NBA in LeBron James but also a far more mature one than the LBJ that left. His time “at college” in Miami has seemed to do exactly what college did for many of us. He seems to have grown up, matured and become a little more serious.

(As a quick aside, this writer has not been LeBron James’ biggest fan from a maturity standpoint, especially on the floor. His constant whining about fouls, showing off and celebrations have annoyed me from early in his Cavs days. Off the court he took a page out of the Derek Jeter say as little as possible mindset. If not that, he used the media in an effort to manipulate circumstances. Felt it was important to note such prior to lauding what seems to be a maturing of a big star.)

It didn’t start off that way in Miami, we all remember the party they threw when the Big 3 were unveiled. Much like the poor decisions many of us have made related to parties in our younger years. Yet Miami didn’t stay a party. In fact his first year there seemed far more like an anvil hanging around his neck than a job he loved.

Already the Cavs have experienced a James that is different than the one that left the team. The first time in Cleveland LeBron refused to do much recruiting, instead reportedly telling potential free agent acquisitions that he wasn’t sure where he would be playing in a few years. This led to the Cavs either overpaying for players or forced to trade for aging veterans on their last legs. This year Kevin Love, Shawn Marion, Mike Miller and James Jones all came to join James here in Cleveland.

Even in his interviews James seems to have matured as seen in these two as James talks about Dan Gilbert and far more important issues:

James has always been media savvy but often giving the “right” answer that always seems forced. Even in this interview when talking about Gilbert, his diet and his quickness on the court he seems far more genuine and mature than ever. He doesn’t seem to be trying to make a statement or grow his brand. Instead being comfortable in his own skin is a huge step.