CLEVELAND — Kevin Love received a heartfelt welcome back to Cleveland when he returned to play against the Cavaliers as a member of the Miami Heat. Previously, Love had been with the Cavaliers for nine seasons, including their celebrated 2016 NBA championship run when they secured Cleveland’s first major sports title since 1964. Now 36, Love had left the Cavaliers after agreeing to a buyout in 2023, joining Miami where he continues to contribute to the team.
During the game, the Cavaliers honored Love with a rousing ovation and a video tribute that featured highlights from his time with the team. Among the memorable moments shown was Love’s critical defensive play against Golden State’s Stephen Curry during the 2016 Finals’ decisive Game 7. Cleveland’s underdog victory from a 3-1 series deficit against the Warriors was a historic achievement in the NBA.
In a gesture of gratitude and nostalgia, Love motioned to his championship ring finger, acknowledging the fans’ affectionate response. After Cleveland’s narrow 112-107 victory, Love expressed his emotional connection to the city and its sports community. He remarked that he had anticipated the emotional impact of his return, having discussed it with his wife.
“It was certainly emotional,” Love explained. “Cleveland and Ohio and this organization will always mean a lot to me. I’ll always come back. … Just a lot of love for so many people here.” He continued to praise everyone from the training staff and players to the fans and support staff, expressing deep appreciation for the relationships formed during his tenure with the Cavaliers.
Additionally, before the game, Love reunited with some former teammates and friends, including Richard Jefferson, who was part of ESPN’s broadcast team, and chatted with general manager Koby Altman and guard Max Strus. Strus, who had played briefly with Love in Miami, commended him, saying, “He’s a special dude… He deserves all of it.”
Love reflected on the 2016 championship team’s brotherhood, emphasizing the lasting connections and memories created during that remarkable comeback season. Describing the experience of defeating a dominant Warrior team, he pondered the journey to success and its significance not just for the team but for the Cleveland community as well.
Despite his transition to a bench role with the Heat, Love’s value as a mentor and leader is highly regarded by Heat coach Erik Spoelstra. Spoelstra praised Love for his willingness to guide younger players like rookie center Kel’el Ware and forward Nikola Jovic, underscoring the importance of veteran leadership in nurturing upcoming talent.
Spoelstra noted, “A lot of vets don’t really want to accept that kind of role and that kind of transition, and he has been able to do that gracefully… He sacrificed his minutes for their development and that speaks a lot to his character.”
Kevin Love’s legacy in Cleveland remains strong, with memories of his championship days shining brightly in the minds of fans and teammates alike.
