CLEVELAND, Ohio — The adoration for Kevin Love is everlasting.
Back “home” again Monday night, this time as a member of the Utah Jazz, the 18-year NBA veteran who spent nearly nine formative seasons in Cleveland received a standing ovation from the Rocket Arena crowd during the game’s first stoppage.
Following a heartfelt video tribute that featured numerous highlights from his legendary career, including clips from the 2016 NBA championship, fans rose to their feet as Love strolled off the Utah bench. Savoring the moment, Love formed his hands in the shape of a heart, saluted the boisterous crowd, tapped his chest and pointed to his ring finger.
Love has played against the Cavs a handful of times since his unceremonious departure in 2023 — the result of a midseason buyout request that paved the way for younger Cavaliers to get extended playing time during a frustrating rebuilding year.
However, Monday was just his second game back in Cleveland since the buyout — and there was added meaning to this first-quarter celebration given Love is in the twilight of his career, with retirement on the horizon.
Who knows when — or if — he will be back.
No matter where he goes, he will take a piece of Cleveland with him.
Forever in Cleveland’s hearts. Forever a Cavalier.