LeBron staying in Cleveland: I’ve got plans to go nowhere

LeBron James says he fully intends to be part of the Cavs next season.

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LeBron James says he fully intends to a member of the Cavaliers next season, Cleveland.com reports.

Though it seems somewhat a foregone conclusion given James’s Finals MVP performance in leading his hometown Cavaliers to the NBA title, he affirmed Wednesday at the team’s championship parade that he plans to stay with the team. James can become a free agent by opting out of his contract, for which he has a June 29 deadline.

“I love it here. I love being here. I love my teammates," James told Cleveland.com. "Obviously my agent will take care of all the logistical things but, I'm happy. I've got no plans to go nowhere at this point.” James, a native of Akron, Ohio, returned to the Cavaliers, the team that drafted him, ahead of the 2014–15 season after four years and two titles with the Heat.

The 31-year old James, now a three-time NBA champion, is reportedly likely to decline his option and become a free agent so that he can increase his payout for next season and re-sign with the team. The NBA’s salary cap will leap to around a projected range of $94 million.

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Free agency begins July 1.