Cavaliers move on without LeBron James after free agent bolts for Miami

Cavaliers start life without LeBron

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — Life without LeBron has begun for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

One day after LeBron James ended his seven-year stay with the Cavs by announcing he will join the Miami Heat, a move owner Dan Gilbert called a “cowardly betrayal,” general manager Chris Grant and coach Byron Scott say their goal remains an NBA championship.

Scott, hired last month not knowing if James would be back, says Friday that he has no problem with Gilbert’s pointed remarks directed at James.

Gilbert told The Associated Press he believes James quit in the playoffs the past two seasons.

Scott says he admires Gilbert for being passionate, and says the owner was speaking from his heart. “I’m both feet in with him,” Scott said.