CLEVELAND, Ohio – There is a full-court press on to lure Lebron James back to Cleveland, but only an amusement park has been able to put a firm offer on the table.
Cedar Point in Sandusky is promising to rename one of its roller coasters “King James” if he returns home to play for the Cavaliers.
James is a free agent and is in the process of making another Decision on his NBA future, four years after announcing his plan to leave Cleveland for Miami on a nationally-televised special.
A park spokesman says it’s a legitimate offer that originated with the CEO.
Cedar Point sent out a tweet with the proposal on Wednesday, telling James the ball was in his court.
The park says James was a frequent visitor during his time growing up in Akron and while playing his first seven seasons for the Cavaliers before he left for Miami.
A person familiar with the situation says the four-time NBA MVP met with Miami Heat president Pat Riley on Wednesday afternoon in Las Vegas but it was unclear whether James told Riley if he would keep his talents in South Beach or take them elsewhere next season.
Free agents may begin signing contracts on Thursday
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers appeared to be making room under the league’s salary cap for Lebron.
The team reportedly agreed on Wednesday to trade guard Jarrett Jack, swingman Sergey Karasev and center Tyler Zeller.
The Cavs have agreements with the Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics, according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because teams are not permitted to discuss any trades until the league’s moratorium ends Thursday.
The deals would give the Cavs enough salary-cap room to offer the superstar free agent James a maximum contract.
ESPN first reported details of the three-way trade.