A Decade of Triumph Celebrated Downtown
Cleveland’s downtown skyline welcomed a new gathering spot this week as the Cleveland Cavaliers officially opened the ‘Meet Me Here Plaza,’ a free, publicly accessible outdoor basketball court that marks the 10‑year anniversary of the franchise’s 2016 NBA championship. The court is the city’s only free, publicly accessible outdoor basketball facility, underscoring the team’s commitment to community recreation.
The ribbon‑cutting ceremony featured remarks from Cavs vice president of business and basketball operations Grant Gilbert, former general manager David Griffin and Rock Entertainment Group CEO Nic Barlage, while county executive Chris Ronayne and city councilman Richard Starr added congratulatory words.
Community Festivities and Legendary Appearances
The event quickly turned into a block party, complete with a wheelchair‑basketball showcase by the Wheelchair Cavaliers, a beer garden, food trucks and giveaways. Former Cavs legends Campy Russell, Larry Nance, Elmore Smith, Jim Chones and Booby Gibson greeted fans on the court, sharing memories and posing for photos.
Construction continues across the street on the ambitious entertainment complex Cosm, a project that city officials say will complement the new court and further energize the neighborhood.
Fans capped the evening with a commercial‑free screening of the iconic Game 7 victory from 2016, a nostalgic moment that underscored the team’s enduring connection to the city.