This Day In Cavs History: Kevin Love Honors Fred McLeod

Before the Cleveland Cavaliers tipped off their 2019-2020 home opener, Kevin Love wore one of Fred McLeod's ties to pay tribute to his late friend.

Throughout the 2023-24 NBA season, Spencer Davies is going to turn back the clock to milestone moments and important dates in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ past with “This Day In Cavs History.” Whether they’ve been good, bad or sad, these events were significant in the franchise’s 53-year existence.

It’s been over four years since the passing of great Fred McLeod. He was a wonderful person, friend and family man. And for Cleveland Cavaliers fans, he was the immeasurably passionate voice of their favorite team on television.

Mar 30, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; TV broadcaster Fred McLeod (right) works during a game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Indiana Pacers at Quicken Loans Arena. Cleveland won 90-76 / David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

One of Fred’s most memorable traits was his choice of ties to go along with his favorite suits. After his passing, his wife Beth McLeod gave over 200 of them in his collection to Fred’s closest friends, colleagues and former co-workers. It was the perfect way to commemorate his memory.

Kevin Love, a beloved Cavalier for eight years, had a terrific relationship with him on camera and off of it. So in order to honor his late, great friend, Love wore Fred's patterned light blue tie prior to the Cavs tipping off their 2019-20 home opener against the Indiana Pacers. 

Kevin Love wearing tie to honor Fred McLeod.#Cavs pic.twitter.com/ce15OsehNB

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) October 26, 2019

It was Love’s tribute to a man that called so many unforgettable games and narrated so many amazing performances from the wine and gold, but also truly connected with everybody he spoke with.

Husband.
Father.
Colleague.
Friend.

An ambassador for the City of Cleveland.

And so much more.

Thank you, Fred. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/BTjCIkjmGG

— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) October 27, 2019

Love tweeted this heartfelt message when Fred suddenly passed in September 2019.

Shocked and saddened to hear about the loss of Fred McLeod. He was a student of the game. He loved the CAVS but even more so the fans...Fred worked his ass off for the city of Cleveland and the NBA. Praying and sending my best to his wife Beth and kids.

Speaking on behalf of the Cavs family: We love and miss you, Fred.