Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant has given the thumbs-up to LeBron James, following his decision to move back to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James decided to return to the Cavaliers after a four-year stay with the Miami Heat, in which he twice won the NBA championship.

Following his choice, James penned a letter in Sports Illustrated explaining why he left Miami, something of which Durant is in strong support.

Durant told reporters: "I thought it was well-thought-out and it was classy. It was a great move to do it as a letter.

"It's funny seeing guys think about more than just basketball for once. He thought about the city where he comes from, about Northeast Ohio and how he can affect so many of the kids just being there playing basketball. I love that. So many guys get criticized for making the decision that's best for them, instead of what's best for everybody else. He's a guy that did that and you've gotta respect that.

"I texted him and told him congratulations on the decision and told him I was happy for him. As a fan of the game, it's going to be pretty cool to see him back in Cleveland."

The Cavaliers announced on Monday that James will wear the number 23 jersey next season.