LeBron James thanks hometown fans for their support

LeBron James said thank you to fans in his hometown of Akron, Ohio with a full-page ad in Tuesday's Akron Beacon-Journal. LeBron James plans to attend his charity bike event in Akron this weekend.

In a photo provided by ESPN, LeBron James sits with Jim Gray before an interview on ESPN on July 8, in Greenwich, Conn. James said that he's decided to join the Miami Heat and leave the Cleveland Cavaliers after an unsuccessful seven-year quest for the championship he covets.

AP Photo/ESPN, Rich Arden

August 3, 2010

LeBron James is showing appreciation to his Ohio hometown fans with a full-page newspaper ad as he leaves to play basketball in Miami.

James thanks Akron residents for their love and support in the ad in Tuesday's Akron Beacon Journal. He calls the city his home and the "central focus" of his life and says he will always come back.

There's no mention of nearby Cleveland, where he played seven seasons for the Cavaliers. Last month he announced his decision to move on to the Miami Heat, leaving some Cavs fans feeling burned.

The ad features photos of James in Akron, including at his annual charity bike-a-thon. This year's event is scheduled for Saturday, and James plans to appear.

Related:

LeBron James: Where's the outrage about his salary?

LeBron James and his superteam: Player collusion or OK?