LeBron James returns to Cavs: 'I'm coming home'

FILE - In this April 22, 2010 file photo, then-Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James talks to teammate Anderson Varejao during the first quarter of Game 3 in the first round of the NBA basketball playoffs against the Chicago Bulls, in Chicago. The wait continues for the next decision. At stake for LeBron James: Where he plays for the next few seasons, and which fan base _ the already-scorned one in Cleveland or the panicked one in Miami _ will undoubtedly feel alienated by whatever choice his latest foray into free agency leads him to make. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

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By Tom Withers, The Associated Press

CLEVELAND - If LeBron James was going to win another NBA title, heal broken hearts and continue building his legacy, he knew there was only one place to go.

To Ohio. Home.

Four years after he left for Miami, a widely criticized departure that damaged his image and crushed a long-suffering city's championship hopes, James is coming back to play for the Cavaliers to try and end Cleveland's half-century title drought. He's returning to his basketball roots, to the people who know him best, to make good on a promise.

James made the announcement Friday with a powerful essay written for Sports Illustrated. His decision ended two weeks of speculation with the entire league waiting on his move.

When he finally made it, Cleveland was his choice over re-signing with the Heat.

"I looked at other teams, but I wasn't going to leave Miami for anywhere except Cleveland," he said to SI. "The more time passed, the more it felt right. This is what makes me happy."

James had not yet signed a contract, but he made it clear he will wear a Cavaliers jersey next season.

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LeBron James returns to Cavs: 'I'm coming home'