Cleveland Cavaliers players LeBron James holds up the Larry O'Brien Trophy after beating the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals game seven at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California, US, June 19, 2016. [Photo/IC]

James named NBA Finals Most Valuable Player for third time

For James, the win not only marks his third NBA title, but it will go down as the single greatest achievement of his storied career as it fulfills his promise to deliver a title to his home state of Ohio.

"I understand what everyone in northeastern Ohio have been through the last 50-plus years and I am happy to be a part of history," said James, who was in tears as he wrapped his arms around the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy. "I can't wait to get back home. I am ready to get to you guys."

The back-and-forth game lived up to its billing as it was tight throughout and included 20 lead changes while no team was able to pull ahead by more than eight points.

Facing elimination in each of their previous two games, James carried the Cavs back from the brink as they became only the third team to force a Game Seven after falling behind 3-1 in the championship round.