Speaking for the first time after the announcement that LeBron James was moving back to Cleveland, Miami Heat coach, Erik Spoelstra says that there are no ill feelings towards James decision in leaving the team. Although they did not expect the decision made but he knew that there is nothing constant in NBA.
After the Heat's summer league game in Las Vegas, Spoelstra talked to South Florida Sun-Sentinel and talked about James going back to Cleveland, he said "He seemed at peace with the decision. We don't have any regrets. He shouldn't have any regrets. It was a historic four-year run."
Spoelstra and worked together for four years under the Miami Heat and was able to bring home 2 championship titles for the team. He said that the four years they spent together were good ones but he knew that the players decision to move back home was what's best for James.
According to Spoelstra, nothing last forever and what is important is your desire to move forward, he said "This league does teach you that it's inevitable that there's constant change, and you always have to continue to embrace change, adapt with change." He added "This is a big, monumental change that we didn't necessarily anticipate, but you have to respect it because when you're a free agent in this league, you have the right to make a decision that's best for you and your family. When he made that decision that was best for his family, where his heart is, all you can do from our side is respond with respect and love."
On the other hand, James made it clear through his SI essay that there are no bad bloods between him and the Miami Heat saying "I'm doing this essay because I want an opportunity to explain myself uninterrupted. I don't want anyone thinking: He and Erik Spoelstra didn't get along. ... He and Riles [Heat president Pat Riley] didn't get along. ... The Heat couldn't put the right team together. That's absolutely not true."
When asked whether he and James already had the chance to talk, he answered "I'm sure there will be a time for that. Again, you forge bonds through competitions and through great experiences like we've had. There will be a time for that. My message wouldn't be any different whenever that time comes."
