The Cleveland Cavaliers, often referred to as the Cavs, are a professional basketball team based in Cleveland, Ohio.
They compete in the Central Division of the NBA’s Eastern Conference and are widely recognized for their passionate fan base, dramatic comebacks, and memorable championship run in 2016.
Founded in 1970 as an expansion franchise, the Cavaliers have become an integral part of Cleveland’s sports identity, symbolizing perseverance, resilience, and triumph against the odds.
Known for their wine, gold, and black team colors, the Cavs have experienced both challenging stretches and remarkable highs, making them one of the league’s most compelling stories.
Where Do the Cavs Play?
The Cavaliers play their home games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, located in downtown Cleveland. Opened in 1994 (originally as Gund Arena), the arena has undergone major renovations to enhance the fan experience with modern amenities, technology, and entertainment spaces.
With a basketball seating capacity of around 19,000, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is more than just a stadium: it serves as a central hub for sports, concerts, and community events.
For Cavs fans, the arena is a place where unforgettable moments unfold, from buzzer-beating shots to championship celebrations.
History of the Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers entered the NBA in 1970 and, like many expansion teams, endured early struggles. However, the franchise steadily improved, with the 1975-76 team becoming the Cavs’ first playoff squad.
Nicknamed the “Miracle of Richfield,” that group, led by coach Bill Fitch and players like Austin Carr, pulled off stunning playoff upsets that gave fans a taste of success.
The late 1980s and early 1990s brought another competitive era. With players such as Mark Price, Brad Daugherty, and Larry Nance, the Cavs became a playoff mainstay.
Despite their talent, they often ran into Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls, which limited their postseason success.
The most transformative chapter in Cavaliers history began in 2003, when Cleveland selected hometown star LeBron James with the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft.
LeBron instantly elevated the franchise, guiding the Cavs to their first NBA Finals appearance in 2007. Although they lost to the San Antonio Spurs, the Cavaliers had become a legitimate contender.
LeBron’s return in 2014 sparked a new golden era. Paired with Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, LeBron led Cleveland to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances from 2015 to 2018.
The pinnacle came in 2016, when the Cavaliers staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history. Down 3-1 in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, Cleveland stormed back to win the series, securing the franchise’s first-ever NBA championship.
LeBron’s iconic chase-down block and Kyrie Irving’s clutch three-pointer in Game 7 remain etched in basketball lore.
Interesting Facts & Franchise Milestones
- The Cavaliers won their first and only NBA championship in 2016, ending Cleveland’s 52-year title drought across major sports.
- Their mascot, “Moondog,” is named after a famous Cleveland radio personality, while “Sir CC” represents a cavalier knight.
- The Cavs’ comeback from 3-1 in the 2016 NBA Finals remains the only time a team has accomplished that feat.
Notable Cleveland Cavaliers Players
The Cavaliers’ story features several standout players who left lasting marks on the franchise:
LeBron James
A four-time MVP and Finals MVP, LeBron is the face of Cavaliers basketball and the leader of the 2016 championship run.
Kyrie Irving
Known for his dazzling handles and clutch shooting, Irving hit the decisive three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals.
Brad Daugherty
A five-time All-Star in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Daugherty was a cornerstone of competitive Cavs teams.
Mark Price
One of the best shooting point guards of his era, Price was a four-time All-Star and an elite free throw shooter.
Larry Nance Sr.
An athletic forward and strong defender, Nance helped anchor the Cavs’ frontcourt during the late 1980s.
Donovan Mitchell
Acquired in 2022, Mitchell has already emerged as a dynamic scorer and leader for the modern Cavaliers.
Notable Cavaliers Coaches
Several coaches have played pivotal roles in shaping the Cavaliers’ history:
Bill Fitch (1970-1979)
The Cavs’ first head coach, Fitch led the franchise to its first playoff appearance and engineered the “Miracle of Richfield” run in 1976.
Lenny Wilkens (1986-1993)
A Hall of Fame coach, Wilkens guided the Cavs to multiple playoff appearances during their strong late 1980s and early 1990s era.
Mike Brown (2005-2010, 2013-2014)
Brown coached the team during LeBron James’ first stint, including the Cavaliers’ first NBA Finals appearance in 2007.
Tyronn Lue (2016-2018)
Lue took over midseason in 2016 and immediately led the Cavs to their first championship, highlighted by the historic Finals comeback.
J.B. Bickerstaff (2020-2024)
Bickerstaff oversaw the Cavaliers’ rebuilding process and return to playoff contention, helping develop the team’s young core.