Despite original plans to the contrary, the iconic banner of Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James that looms across the street from Quicken Loans Arena will stay put, per a statement from Sherwin-Williams, the owner of the building on which the celebrated image appears.
It was previously announced that Sherwin-Williams would be removing the 10-story tall Nike billboard and replacing it with something to commemorate the company’s 150th anniversary as part of Cleveland hosting the Republican National Convention from July 18-21. The James billboard originally was scheduled for removal on July 5.
A public outcry ensued — highlighted by a petition on Change.org that has garnered over 23,000 signatures — that arguably played a role in prompting the company to reverse course.
“For 150 years, Sherwin-Williams has been proud to call Cleveland our home, and we’re committed to doing the right thing for the people of this great city,” said Sherwin Williams president and CEO John Morikis, via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “For the last year, we’ve been planning to hang a celebratory banner outside our building during the summer months. But what better way to celebrate our 150th year than with a NBA championship. As a longtime supporter of the Cavs, and the entire community, we want the energy and excitement in this city to continue.”
The company also announced it would be donating $150,000 to the LeBron James Family Foundation.
The gigantic billboard originally was installed shortly before the 2014-15 NBA season after James announced he’d be returning to Cleveland to play for the Cavs after spending several years with the Miami Heat.
And now, it's not going anywhere.
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