LeBron James: Rise of the Strategic Athlete

"We Are All Witnesses" to the rise of a strategic athlete, businessman and nonprofit advocate.

New York – LeBron James’ announcement of his free agent decision to join the Miami Heat confirmed Nike’s LeBron slogan.  “We Are All Witnesses”–to the rise of the strategic athlete.

With this one decision LeBron took a pay cut, created a charitable gift, projected to raise $2.5 million for the Boys and Girls Club of America, got the University of Phoenix to donate five scholarships to his foundation, improved his chance of becoming a championship winning player, helped position his new team to become an American basketball dynasty, realized a dream of playing on the same team with two Olympic team mates and primed himself to withstand the mean spirited tirade of a hateful owner,  fans and all whom determined he owes them his ability and earned  opportunity to decide where he will work.

While LeBron’s decision was being analyzed, criticized, second guessed and used to hype ratings  before it was announced.  More than one hundred National Basketball Association players, unrestricted free agent, were grappling with and hopeful for a contract commensurate with their abilities and contributions.  If they were to write open letters vilifying owners, coaches and teams, for doing  what is a legitimate part of the industry, not re-signing them, they are likely to be punished with fines and suspension.

LeBron’s right to work for the company of his choosing is undisputable; as are employers rights to choose their employees.  Coach Mike Brown didn’t try to incite hate for the Cavaliers after he was rewarded with being fired for coaching the team to the NBA’s best  record two years in a row.  Players, coaches, businesses and nonprofits can all use LeBron’s experience as a reason to create and/or update their strategic planning.