Paul George was well-received in OKC, but nothing like he's about to be shares email

Paul George credited how Oklahoma City fans treated him as playing a role in re-signing with the Thunder. “The fact that they embraced me from day one was very special to me and my family.” [Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman] Oklahoma City's Paul George (13) celebrates a 3-point basket during the NBA basketball game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Oklahoma City Thunder at Chesapeake Energy Arena, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman

Paul George chuckled the other day when I asked him if he had any idea what a hero he had become in Oklahoma. He got here and was embraced by the multitude, cheered like the superstar he is. But Oklahomans are a little bit stung. A little bit wary. They weren't going to give away their heart all that easily. They carved a little wall in the corner of their fandom and weren't in any mood to tear it down quickly. Not after Kevin Durant. We learned a tough lesson two Julys ago. Players don't stay forever in one place. Heroes can disappoint.