Breakups are hard. When you lose what you once considered the best person in the world, the days and months following can be a difficult time.
Such was the case when LeBron James, the greatest NBA player since Michael Jordan, elected to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers, leaving the Miami Heat after four Finals appearances and two championships.
According to Joseph Goodman of the Miami Herald, Heat President Pat Riley didn’t take the news well. Fortunately, nine months later, Riley is “at peace” with what happened.
Pat Riley on LeBron leaving, one year later: "Yes, I'm at peace with it."
— Joseph Goodman, Sports Enthusiast 🎟🍺 (@JoeGoodmanJr) April 20, 2015
Now, that’s a completely understandable thought. Players like LeBron don’t come around very often, and the Big Three of James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh was special. Miami dominated the Eastern Conference throughout the four-year span.
But worry not, LeBron, Riley found someone new. He’s working on a committed relationship with point guard Goran Dragic, who is set to become a free agent.
Riley on Dragic: "If he doesn't sign, my ass will be in that [media] seat next year."
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 20, 2015
Now don’t you go breakin’ Riles’ heart, Goran.
Photo: USA Today Sports