It was a picture perfect evening at Espace in New York City as Miami Heat star LeBron James accepted the 2012 Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year Award. Fiancée Savannah Brinson, mother Gloria and famous buddies Jay-Z and Beyonce were by his side as the league’s reigning MVP was honored for his outstanding accomplishments.
“I don’t do this by myself, you guys have a lot to do with this as well,” he said. “Every award that I win, you guys should feel proud about it as well. [...] Without my team, on and off the floor, none of this is obtainable.”
Duke University and U.S. Men’s Basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski was also on hand to praise James.
“LeBron, you have been the most scrutinized athlete that I have seen in my lifetime,” he said. “To have the year of scrutiny that you had the year before — and then to have the year of accomplishment — the dignity and class you showed makes you unbelievably deserving of this award.”
Check out all the hot shots after the jump!
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
