Longtime Cleveland Cavaliers play-by-play announcer Fred McLeod has passed away at the age of 67. In celebration of his life and legendary career, below are the best calls of his broadcasting career in no particular order.
Here is McLeodâs call when the Cavs won the title after mounting a 3-1 comeback against the 73-win Golden State Warriors squad in 2016. It ended Clevelandâs 52-year championship drought and brought LeBron James his third title.
Above is McLeodâs voice. Below is his reaction to the teamâs championship win.
Up next is McLeodâs explosive commentary on Jamesâ vicious slam against the Portland Trail Blazers. The slam caught everyone by surprise given Jamesâ age. Nobody knew that he could still get up that high and slam it down. McLeod, for his part, chose the perfect words to describe the moment.
McLeod also provided this gem during Kyrie Irvingâs early years with the Cavs. Apparently, the legendary sportscaster couldnât âtake it anymoreâ after Irvingâs dagger against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Below is his call of Jamesâ 3-point shot from a Kevin Love full-court heave. The shot was tagged as one of the top plays of the year â and McLeod immediately knew the moment was special.
Finally, see and hear McLeodâs reaction to Jamesâ game-winning shot against the Chicago Bulls in the playoffs.
Rest in peace, Fred.