LeBron James' Impact on Cleveland: A Look Back at the 2016 World Series Game 7

When LeBron James returned to his hometown of Cleveland in 2014, it was met with widespread excitement and anticipation. The four-time NBA champion had previously left the city to pursue a championship with the Miami Heat, but his decision to come back was seen as a move that would bring prosperity and joy to the people of Cleveland.

Fast forward to October 2016, when James made a guest appearance at Game 7 of the World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians. The city was abuzz with energy and excitement as the Cubs were on the verge of breaking their 108-year championship drought.

But LeBron was able - and he was not alone with that great supporting cast - to find a way to change the direction of the series and probably a lot more. A lot of the things people make fun of were years ago. 'It's been the butt of so many jokes for so long, all unnecessary to be honest,' said Tony Godsick, the Cleveland-based agent who has long represented Roger Federer.

In that moment, James was not only honoring his roots with his old-school loyalty and hunger-pang hustle, he was honoring others' roots, too. He was a symbol of hope and redemption for a city that had been through so much.

The 2016 World Series was filled with transcendent moments, from Portugal's first major title at the Euro to Brazil's cathartic grudge match in Rio with Germany. But James' presence at Game 7 added an extra layer of excitement and significance to the game.

As the Cubs went on to win the series, it marked a turning point for the city of Cleveland and its beloved sports teams. It was a moment that would be remembered for generations to come, and one that cemented James' status as a hero in the eyes of the people of Cleveland.

In today's thoroughly mercantile, increasingly globalized sports world, players are still the sum of their actions. And for LeBron James, his decision to return to Cleveland was not only about winning championships, but also about honoring the city and its people.

Lebron james 2016 world series game 7