Lebron James - a look at what he REALLY means to Cleveland

He fell into their lap. The most highly touted, most popular, most sought after high school basketball player of all time. Holding the best percentage chance to win the draft lottery in 2003, the Cleveland Cavaliers waited anxiously as the final two lottery balls were picked... With the second pick in the 2003 NBA draft... The Detroit Pistons. That meant Cleveland had won the rights to the first pick. And maybe their savior, Lebron James. Could he erase decades of sports disappointment? The Drive in 1987, The Fumble in 1988, The Shot in 1989, and the Renteria hit in the 1997 World Series. Cleveland had seen its share of heartbreak, across all sport platforms. With one announcement, their luck had finally changed.

Over the next 6 years, Lebron would meet, exceed, and create new expectations that would be considered crazy for almost every other sports athlete ever. He has single handedly brought hope back to a city that had nearly given up. But his impact stretches far beyond the hardwood. He has the #2 selling jersey in the world, is the only reason the Cavs are the #3 team as far as merchandise sales go, and is by far the biggest tourist attraction in the city.

The tallest skyscrapers in the city often time adorn enormous Lebron posters. Skyscrapers, most often the central focus of progression in a city, are dedicated to the city's main attraction. He "fuels" their economy. If he could bring a championship to Cleveland, it would, for a time, erase any gloom, sadness, or restlessness the city has endured whether because of its economy, sports failures, or its seemingly inability to impress visitors.

But what would happen if Lebron up and left the city of Cleveland this summer during free agency? One can only imagine...

Okay maybe not that bad. But there would definitely be a lot more images similar to this one across the stadiums around the city.

http://www.realclearsports.com/blognetwork/justice_is_served/cleveland-browns-fan-crying.jpg

Now this is obviously a worst case scenario. But what else can we think of? In cases like this, it's hard to be optimistic. Another pre-NBA Finals ousting for the Cavs in 2010. Big bucks, bigger markets, more opportunity? Will that drive King James away from his home? Or will these emotions pass? Will July 1st roll around and see Lebron prove loyal to his hometown for the last 25 years? That decision can't come soon enough for Cleveland faithful.

One thing is certain, if Lebron leaves, Cleveland instantly becomes the most depressed sports city in America. Sorry D.C.

But IF he stays, he most likely has committed himself to this city for life. If Lebron James can't change the fortunes of Cleveland, will anyone? Ever?