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Cavs give new contract to LeBron James'' close friend, high school teammate | Sporting News

The Cleveland Cavaliers have recently made a significant move in their front office by signing a new contract with a close friend and high school teammate of LeBron James, further intertwining the legacy of the NBA superstar with the organization. This development, as reported by Sporting News, highlights the ongoing influence of LeBron James on the Cavaliers, even as he continues his illustrious career with the Los Angeles Lakers. The individual in question is Dru Joyce III, a name familiar to those who have followed LeBron’s journey from his early days in Akron, Ohio, to his rise as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Joyce, who played alongside LeBron at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, has now been brought into the Cavaliers’ fold in a coaching capacity, marking a notable chapter in the team’s efforts to build a competitive roster and culture.

Dru Joyce III’s connection to LeBron James is rooted in their shared history at St. Vincent-St. Mary, where they were part of a legendary high school basketball team that garnered national attention. Known as the "Fab Five" of Akron, the group included LeBron, Joyce, Sian Cotton, Willie McGee, and Romeo Travis. Together, they achieved remarkable success, winning multiple state championships and establishing themselves as a powerhouse in high school basketball. Joyce, often referred to as "Little Dru," was the point guard of the team, known for his leadership and playmaking abilities despite his smaller stature compared to the towering LeBron. Their bond extended beyond the court, with a deep friendship forged through years of shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs in their formative years.

While LeBron went on to become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft and embarked on a historic professional career, Joyce took a different path. After high school, he played college basketball at the University of Akron, where he had a successful career as a point guard, earning recognition for his skills and basketball IQ. Following his playing days, Joyce transitioned into coaching, building a reputation as a knowledgeable and dedicated mentor to young players. His coaching journey has included stints at various levels, most notably as an assistant coach at Duquesne University, where he worked under head coach Keith Dambrot, another figure with ties to LeBron’s early career. Dambrot, who coached LeBron and Joyce at St. Vincent-St. Mary, has been a significant influence in Joyce’s development as a coach, providing a direct link to the philosophies and strategies that shaped their high school success.

The Cavaliers’ decision to bring Joyce into their organization reflects a strategic move to leverage his experience, basketball acumen, and personal connection to LeBron James. While LeBron is no longer with the Cavaliers, having left the team for the second time in 2018 to join the Lakers, his impact on the franchise remains profound. LeBron led the Cavaliers to their first and only NBA championship in 2016, a historic achievement that cemented his status as a hometown hero in Cleveland. His influence extends beyond his on-court contributions, as the organization continues to value individuals who understand his vision and the culture he helped build during his tenure with the team. Joyce’s hiring can be seen as a nod to this legacy, as he brings not only a shared history with LeBron but also a deep understanding of the grit, determination, and teamwork that defined their high school dynasty.

Joyce’s role with the Cavaliers is expected to focus on player development and coaching, areas where his expertise as a former point guard and his experience under Dambrot will be invaluable. His ability to connect with players on a personal level, drawing from his own journey as an undersized but determined athlete, could prove to be a significant asset for the Cavaliers as they work to nurture their young talent. The team has undergone a rebuilding phase in recent years, with a focus on developing a new core of players to return to playoff contention. Joyce’s addition to the staff aligns with this goal, as his background suggests he can contribute to fostering a winning mentality and instilling the values of hard work and camaraderie that were hallmarks of his and LeBron’s high school team.

Moreover, Joyce’s hiring underscores the Cavaliers’ commitment to maintaining ties to their past while looking toward the future. The organization has often emphasized the importance of its history, particularly the LeBron James era, which brought unprecedented success and attention to Cleveland. By bringing in someone like Joyce, who was part of that foundational story, the Cavaliers are signaling a desire to blend nostalgia with progress. This move also resonates with fans who remember the St. Vincent-St. Mary days and the incredible journey of LeBron and his teammates, offering a sense of continuity and connection to those early, formative years that shaped one of the NBA’s greatest players.

The personal significance of this development for Joyce cannot be overstated. Returning to Cleveland, the city where he and LeBron achieved so much together, represents a full-circle moment in his career. It is an opportunity for Joyce to contribute to the professional team that LeBron once led to glory, and to do so in a capacity that allows him to impart the lessons and values he learned alongside one of basketball’s all-time greats. For Joyce, this role is not just a job but a chance to honor the legacy of his high school team while helping to build the next generation of Cavaliers players.

From a broader perspective, Joyce’s hiring also speaks to the enduring power of relationships in the world of basketball. The sport is often described as a tight-knit community, where connections forged on the court can lead to opportunities years down the line. The bond between LeBron, Joyce, and others from their St. Vincent-St. Mary days has remained strong, as evidenced by their continued support for one another’s endeavors. While LeBron is not directly involved in the Cavaliers’ day-to-day operations, his influence looms large, and it is likely that he views Joyce’s new role with pride and optimism, knowing that a trusted friend and teammate is helping to carry forward the spirit of their shared past.

For the Cavaliers, this move is also a reminder of the importance of culture and identity in building a successful franchise. In an era where NBA teams are constantly searching for the right mix of talent, coaching, and chemistry, the Cavaliers are leaning on familiar faces and proven leaders to help guide their path. Joyce’s presence on the staff brings a unique perspective, one shaped by his experiences as a player and coach, as well as his deep ties to the city of Cleveland and its most iconic basketball figure. His understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, combined with his personal connection to the team’s history, positions him as a valuable addition to the organization.

In conclusion, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ decision to sign Dru Joyce III to a new contract represents more than just a coaching hire; it is a symbolic and strategic move that bridges the past and present of the franchise. Joyce, a high school teammate and close friend of LeBron James, brings with him a wealth of experience, a shared history of success, and a personal connection to the city of Cleveland that resonates deeply with fans and the organization alike. As the Cavaliers continue to rebuild and redefine themselves in the post-LeBron era, Joyce’s role offers a link to the team’s most celebrated moments while providing a foundation for future achievements. His journey from the courts of St. Vincent-St. Mary to the sidelines of the Cavaliers is a testament to the enduring impact of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance in the world of basketball, and it serves as a reminder of the powerful legacy that LeBron James and his teammates created in their hometown. As Joyce steps into this new chapter, both he and the Cavaliers have an opportunity to honor their past while working toward a brighter future, one that hopefully brings more success to a franchise and a city that holds basketball so close to its heart.

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[ https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/cleveland-cavaliers/news/cavs-new-contract-lebron-james-close-friend-high-school-teammate/e7fc424d5a7b552c25531526 ]