LeBron James staying with Cleveland Cavaliers, will earn record salary
By Andy Charles
Last Updated: 13/08/16 7:43am
LeBron James has agreed a new three-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers that will eventually make him the highest-paid player in NBA history.
James helped the Cavaliers secure their first NBA title last season and will make a reported $100m (£77m) over the length of his new deal.
The 31-year-old is due to be paid $31m (£24m) in the first year of his deal, but his salary will top $33m (£25.4m) in 2017-18 and pass the record set by Michael Jordan with the Chicago Bulls in the 1997-98 season.
James confirmed he would be re-signing with the Cavaliers on Uninterrupted on Thursday.
"I just want to let y'all know I'm re-signing back with the Cleveland Cavaliers, my hometown team," James said.
"I can't be more excited than this opportunity once again, man, to defend our crown, defend our title.
"We all know last year was magical and inspiring - all the words you can come up with - it was an unbelievable season. I just can't wait to get the group back together - the team, the franchise, more importantly, get everybody together, the fans.
"Without you guys, without your passion and commitment, we wouldn't have been able to do what we did this past season. I'm ecstatic. I can't wait to see my guys. I can't wait to get back out there in the wine and gold and just get the band back together."
