How NBA Stars Really Felt About LeBron James Joining Miami Heat

LeBron James’ decision to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat in in 2010 changed basketball history forever.

Beyond just the cultural implications of ‘The Decision’ and all that came with it, James’ move also gave the green light to stars like Kevin Durant to hop around for team to team in search of a championship.

In many ways, it shaped the next 14 years of professional basketball more than anything else.

Recently, Jeff Teague joined Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller to discuss James’ decision to go to Miami.

“Let’s keep it real,” Teague said.

“I remember when Bron came to Miami. Everybody was like, ‘This sh*t is weak.’ I ain’t gonna lie. I don’t give a fu*k. I was in my third year.

“I was like, ‘I don’t care. I just wanna hoop. I’m trying to get paid.’ But I remember Joe [Johnson]… and he was just like, ‘Why would they do this sh*t?’ He’s like, ‘This sh*t’s weak, man! Bron, he weak for that!’”

It is interesting that Teague’s impression of James’ move is so negative, particularly given how it is viewed historically now.

Nobody really looks down on it unless it is someone who just doesn’t like James and wants to disassemble his legacy.

That said, clearly there was some initial backlash to James leaving for Miami – even if history has sort of rewritten it since then.

Once James finally retires, it will be interesting to see how his move to the Heat ultimately impacts his legacy long-term.