The moment belonged to LeBron James. It also belonged to Akron and Cleveland and really all of Northeastern Ohio.

He wasn't about to let anyone take it away him from him -- or the area he proudly has represented before the eyes of a nation these past few years.

So when the top pick of the NBA Draft and the Cavaliers was asked if he wouldn't rather play in a more ``glamorous'' market such as New York or Los Angeles, James never hesitated.

``You come (to Cleveland) next season and see how glamorous it is,'' James said, smiling. ``It's going to be a lot better. It will be lit up like Vegas.''

It certainly was aglow Thursday night.

On the most memorable evening of his life -- the one it seems he has been destined to live out for more than two years -- James left no doubt where his heart lies.

With his family, with his friends, with his hometown and the one so eager to adopt him.

``I'm excited, I'm still excited, this dream has finally come (true) and the hard work has finally paid off,'' James said.