If winning the NBA championship does not help repair his image, LeBron James’ recent personality growth just might.
The Finals MVP has been far more congenial and accommodating (not that he was cold or unavailable before) in the wake of carrying the Miami Heat to the title over the Oklahoma City Thunder. And why wouldn’t he be?
An avalanche of pressure was released with the accomplishment. And now he should be unabashed in his celebration.
He appeared on David Letterman’s show in New York and received a standing ovation. And while at the Coconut Grove Ritz Carlton for hotel for an interview, James happened upon the wedding of Shaun and Jamie Kolnick. The did not know them, but he ended up giving them a moment they’ll likely display in their home for years by posing for a photo with them that has gone viral.
“It was really unexpected and exciting,” said Kolnick. “Shaun was like, ‘That’s enough! We don’t need to get married anymore.'”
Buzz had begun building hours before the ceremony that James was at the Ritz, said wedding planner Jen Schwartz, but no one was sure they’d actually spot the city’s new hero.
“It was funny, because the bride’s brother was just dying, he was beside himself with excitement,” Schwartz said, laughing. “And at some point, she looked at him and said, ‘Okay, you’re more excited that LeBron James is here than you are for my wedding!'”
It was an authentic moment for James, one that speaks to his mindset — and helps rebuild his image that took a hit two years ago when he bolted Cleveland for Miami.
