LeBron's Decision Could Have Impact On South Florida's Economy
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – LeBron James brought four years of post season play, two victory parades in downtown Miami and countless heart stopping games. He's credited with whipping fans into a frenzy during game time and helping to pack downtown bars and restaurants.
The Downtown Development Agency called it "rocket fuel". Overall, LeBron James and his talents meant businesses and lots of money for Miami's economy.
"Him being here brings the Miami arena full and we're across from the arena," said Charles Greefield with Pucci's Pizza.
Greenfield wonders what will happen now that James has decided to return to Cleveland.
Excited sports fans are known for spending a lot of money in restaurants and bars.
One restaurant Ted Scouten spoke to, who has several locations, said Heat playoff games alone increased revenue by a million dollars.
Elwoods Gastro Pub is one of those businesses that saw increases in profits.
LeBron's Going Home To Cleveland
"Our business is great when the Heat are in the finals, especially the last few wins they had," said Lorry Woods with Elwoods Gastro Pub.
While Woods she knows losing LeBron could mean a drop in business, she figures there could be an upside too, maybe bringing fans out to early season games to check out the revamped team.
"I think him leaving might actually give a fresh team that's going to need the support early on, in which could actually have the opposite effect and bring more business to some of the local businesses," added Woods.
Pucci's owner pointed out LeBron James leaving could have some benefits in the way of new customers.
"Well guess what? Seats are going to go down so more people can go to the games, that's good news, right? Prices," added Greenfield.
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