It was not a surprise to see LeBron James win the 2008-09 NBA Most Valuable Player award. After all, he did lead the Cavs to the best record (66-16), the best home record (39-2) in the NBA and the top seed in the playoffs. He is the league's second youngest player to win the award at 24 years and 106 days (Moses Malone-24 years, 16 days in 1978-79).
The best part of LeBron winning the MVP is where he accepted the award. His Alma mater, St. Vincent-St. Mary High School...where the world first got its glimpses of the King when he was in high school .
In the gym where James helped his school win three state titles, stood his 14 Cavalier teammates to lend their support.
Even though James did not win the league's scoring title he did finish second in the league in scoring (28.4 ppg) and set personal highs in starting 81 games, field-goal (49) and free-throw percentages as well as blocks (93). He became the second player to post five straight seasons with at least 27 points, six rebounds and six assists.
-"I'm 24 years old and I'm receiving this award, I never thought it would happen this fast. I never dreamed about being MVP, but if I said I didn't enjoy this award I'd be lying. Hard work pays off and dreams do come true."- LeBron James On Winning MVP
James' dominance in the regular season followed him in the first round of the playoffs. Nearly averaging a triple double -- 32 points, 11.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 7.5 assists -- as the Cavs swept Detroit.
The dominance continued in game one of the semifinals vs. Atlanta. The Cavs blew out the Hawks 99-72. James added 34 points, 10 rebounds, 4 steals and 3 assists in 34 minutes. The Hawks kept it close trailing by five at the half, but the Cavs and LeBron took off in the second half. James' supporting cast came up big. Mo Williams and Delonte West combined for 35 points and 5-10 from the 3-point line. The Cavs shot 47% and only turned the ball over seven times compared the Atlanta's 17.
The Cavs had a eight day lay off prior to game one. Many people felt the lay off would hurt the Cavs by throwing off the team chemistry or rhythm, but there was no sign of that.
"It was unbelievable how sharp we were. We just picked up where we left off."- LeBron James
It is safe to say the MVP and the rest of the Cavaliers are focused for game two and the rest of this series. In the last five playoff games, no one has come within single digits of the Cavs and if they keep up this pace, it will be a smooth ride to the Finals.
But you know LeBron and company are not thinking that far.
But you know LeBron and company are not thinking that far.
~Sabol
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