USA – Olympic hero James earns first NBA MVP

CLEVELAND (NBA) - LeBron James fulfilled a career objective before he’d even slam-dunked a ball in anger or hit one of those incredibly long three-pointers this season.

He won a gold medal at the Olympics with Team USA in China.

Now the 24-year-old has accomplished another after being voted as the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for the 2008-09 NBA campaign.

James, whose unworldly play led the Cavaliers to an NBA-best record of 66-16, received 109 of a possible 121 first-place votes.

Media members in the United States and Canada cast ballots.

Another Team USA star, Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers, received two first-place votes and his overall point total of 680 was far behind James’ 1,172.

James returned to his roots at St. Vincent-St. Mary – the high school he attended in Akron – to accept the award.

"I'm 24 years old and I'm receiving this award, I never thought it would happen this fast," James said at.

"I never dreamed about being MVP, but if I said I didn't enjoy this award I'd be lying. Hard work pays off and dreams do come true."

"The 'P' stands for person, it goes beyond player," Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert said.

“To a lot of people, he's a most valuable person. He gives to his team, his friends, the City of Akron, St. Vincent-St. Mary; he has given in so many ways."

Miami guard Dwyane Wade was third with 680 points and was named first on seven ballots. Orlando center Dwight Howard (328) was fourth followed by New Orleans guard Chris Paul (192).

That trio of players also represented the United States last summer at the Beijing Games.

FIBA