Well, #TeamPetty took a decisive, historic loss Sunday night, along with the Golden State Warriors, as the defending champions squandered a 3-1 series lead and plenty of opportunities down the stretch of Game 7.
Here are some quick thoughts, from a Miami perspective:
-- First, recognize that LeBron James is still the world's best player, and it isn't especially close. He doesn't need a regular season MVP to validate that. He was the dominant force throughout this series, while Stephen Curry was too sloppy in too many situations.
-- Second, be proud that James chose your city to ply his trade for four seasons. Twenty-six other cities -- and two teams in New York and Los Angeles -- would have loved the chance.
-- Third, take some pride that he took his template for team-building from the Heat. He has said so himself. Though, somehow, I don't think Erik Spoelstra will get a playoff share.
-- Fourth, don't stress too much when you hear James say this championship is extra special. ABC/ESPN's Doris Burke set him up for that, and James said it was because he "was home." Of course. That's been the narrative all along. And this one was especially difficult, considering James had to win two games in Oakland, where the Warriors had lost only twice during the entire regular season. But I'll still maintain that the first title was the most meaningful, because it's the one in which he validated himself as a champion.
-- Fifth, tell your friends what a smart tweeter (@TeviEber) observed.... "LeBron still has never won a championship without Dwyane Wade in the room." Wade was at Oracle Arena on Sunday.
-- Finally, don't watch the parade, where fans who cursed James will get the ultimate sports reward. Unless torture appeals to you. Better to go to the beach instead.
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