Basketball fans across the nation felt deceived Tuesday (October 7) after LeBron James revealed his highly anticipated “Second Decision” was nothing more than a Hennessy advertisement.
The Los Angeles Lakers superstar had teased the announcement on Monday on social media. He used language that echoed his famous 2010 “Decision” broadcast. Fans immediately began speculating about retirement or a major career move. Fans reacted with anger and disappointment across social media platforms. Many felt misled by the marketing campaign that played on one of the most controversial moments in NBA history. Ticket prices for Lakers games skyrocketed in anticipation of the announcement. According to ESPN, single tickets jumped from about $82 to $580 on Vivid Seats after James posted his cryptic message. The 40-year-old James is the NBA’s oldest active player. He is set to appear in his 23rd season, which would be a league record.
The “Second Decision” reference deliberately called back to James’ 2010 ESPN special. In that broadcast, he announced that he was leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers to join the Miami Heat. The move shocked the basketball world and angered Cleveland fans. James won two championships with the Miami Heat before returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014. He delivered the city’s first major sports title in 52 years when the Cavaliers won the 2016 NBA championship.