Chosen One

The media often characterizes LeBron James as the "Chosen One", the savior of the NBA and heir apparent to Michael Jordan.  The mythos of "King James" developed early as he led St. Vincent-St. Mary's High School to three Ohio State Championships and earned the title "Mr. Basketball of Ohio" three straight years.  James graced the covers of national magazines like Slam, ESPN the Magazine, and Sports Illustrated, and ESPN televised a handful of high school games.

James surprised no one when he elected to go straight to the NBA after high school.  His performance in the league and claim to superstar status has gone without question until now.  In the span of five games during this years NBA finals, a significant number of people are questioning his "superstar credentials."

Granted, James performance against the Dallas Mavericks ranges between below average and average, but I believe a majority of this criticism is retaliation for his ill advised participation in the "Decision" where he publically "dumped" the Cleveland Cavilers and their fans.  It's amazing how one moment can turn the perception of one man from "hero" to "villain" in less than an hour (with commercial breaks).

Tonight's do-or-die for the Heat, and if James wants to truly live up to the moniker "Chosen One", he's going to have to play within the team's game plan and dominate on both ends of the floor, and remind everyone that "superstar credentials" don't disappear just because you struggle in five games, even if it's the NBA finals.