Kevin Love Receives Emotional Tribute in Cleveland Return with Miami Heat

The former Cavaliers star was honored for his pivotal role in the 2016 NBA championship during his first game back at Rocket Arena in two years.

Kevin Love, now 36 and playing for the Miami Heat, returned to Cleveland for the first time since leaving the Cavaliers in 2023, receiving a warm ovation from fans and a video tribute during the game.
Love played a key role in the Cavaliers' historic 2016 NBA championship, which ended Cleveland's 52-year major sports title drought, including a memorable defensive stop on Stephen Curry in Game 7 of the Finals.
During the tribute, Love saluted the crowd by pointing to his championship ring finger, reflecting on the deep connections he built with the Cavaliers organization and the city of Cleveland.
Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised Love's selflessness, highlighting his mentorship of younger players like Kel'el Ware and Nikola Jovic as he transitions to a bench role late in his career.
Love hinted at the possibility of his No. 0 jersey being retired by the Cavaliers, potentially becoming the first from the 2016 championship team to receive such an honor.