FILE - In this June 21, 2013 file photo, Miami Heat players including LeBron James, top center, celebrate after Game 7 of the NBA basketball championship game against the San Antonio Spurs, in Miami. As he walked off the court for the final time last season, LeBron James shouted to no one in particular, "Keep doubting me! I need it!" He and the Heat seem to have plenty of doubters now, and James knows there's only one way to prove them wrong. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File) (The Associated Press)
MIAMI – LeBron James is getting ready to enter playoff mode.
It's become a rite of spring for him now. He shuts off his phone when the postseason begins, eschews social media, and occupies his mind by reading more and talking less.
And given that he and the Miami Heat have won the last two NBA titles, it clearly seems to be working for him.
James is often fueled by doubters, but says this year he doesn't need any extra motivation. No one needs to tell him what a fourth straight trip to the NBA Finals and third straight championship would mean.
Miami hosts Charlotte on Sunday in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.
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