On Friday morning, the NBA Players Association announced that Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James has been given their “Global Impact Player” award.
James, one of the world’s most recognizable athletes, is a fitting recipient of this prestigious award. Over the course of his 14-year career in the NBA, “the King,” as he has come to be known, has touched the lives of people all across the globe, inspiring them in a variety of different ways.
“I think LeBron has done an incredible job of building his image globally,” Pau Gasol said of James in the NBPA’s announcement video.
James’ impact on the game of basketball has been evident, but his off-the-court influence is simply immense. No matter where he goes in the world, people flock to catch a glimpse.
James, a former St. Vincent – St. Mary’s High School standout, has donated heaps of money to the school system in his home town of Akron, Ohio. In fact, kids who complete James’ IPromise program will be granted a scholarship to Akron University.
One day, when his playing days are over, James will be able to sit back in his rocking chair and reflect on all of his accomplishments. Let’s just hope that day comes later, rather than sooner.