LeBron James just made it official, signing a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, his agency Klutch Sports Group confirmed Friday. That contract comes with a player option, Rich Paul told ESPN, and it’s already got his hometown of Akron, Ohio, absolutely buzzing with mixed reactions from fans.
Some Fans Are All In, No Matter What
You got folks like Fred Slack, an Akron local, who hit it right on the head, saying, “I regret that he ain’t coming home to Cleveland, but this will always be his hometown.” Then there’s Brandon Knowles, who was slingin’ lemonade at the Northeast Regional Firefighter Challenge Classic in downtown Akron, and he was absolutely hyped, shouting, “We got Bron!” Knowles isn’t even a Philly fan, he’s just a die-hard LeBron fan, and he’s stoked James isn’t retiring. He’s even got predictions, believing, “Give it a year or two, they will win a championship,” though he admitted, “even though it should have been Cleveland.” Even Nick Corpas, co-owner of Akron Family restaurant, is already cooking up a “Philly steak omelet” in James’ honor. Corpas wishes LeBron was coming home but is “excited for him in his new move to Philadelphia” and pledges to “follow him wherever he goes and cheer him on.”
Others? Not So Much.
On the flip side, Cincy Snider was straight-up disappointed James didn’t come back home, though she still added, “We love him.” But then there’s Jason Olson from Streetsboro. He hasn’t been a fan since “The Decision” way back in 2010 when James bolted for Miami. Olson said he “would’ve liked to see him come to the Cavs” to run their offense, but honestly? He said, “I haven’t liked him since ‘The Decision,’ so let him go. Who cares?” That’s a pretty tough take from a hometown guy.
So, while James packs his bags for Philly, Akron remains a city truly divided. Some are ready to cheer on the Sixers, dreaming of championships and celebrating with a “Philly omelet,” while others are still salty about past moves and aren’t even bothering to watch. One thing’s for sure: whether you’re all in or completely over it, LeBron James still brings out strong feelings in his hometown.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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