THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
CLEVELAND — Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert expects Cleveland fans to be boisterous but behave when LeBron James returns this week.
Gilbert isn’t anticipating any trouble on Thursday night for James’ first visit as a member of the Miami Heat. James left the Cavs as a free agent in July after playing seven seasons for Cleveland. After the two-time league MVP left, Gilbert criticized James’ decision and accused him of quitting in last season’s playoffs.
Gilbert was fined US$100,000 by NBA David Stern for his comments.
The team will beef up security for James’ visit. Speaking during halftime of Cleveland’s game Tuesday night against Boston, Gilbert said he’s confident Cavs fans will show their usual passion but won’t take it too far.
