[ad_1]
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Veteran Cleveland Cavaliers broadcaster and franchise legend Joe Tait passed away at the age of 83 on Wednesday afternoon, but his voice is still booming.
This became clear in the hours following his death, as fans, members of the media and other riders, past and present, shared their fondest memories and said goodbye to each other.
“The Cleveland Cavaliers mourn the passing of one of our beloved Founding Fathers and the original and longtime voice of the franchise – Joe Tait,” the team wrote in a statement. “From the team’s inception in 1970 through the next four decades, the Basketball Hall of Famer has informed, entertained and inspired generations of Cavs fans – painting a picture of the game with an unparalleled blend of passion, precision and of humor.
“A devoted husband and father – generous with his talent and his wit – Joe has received all of the major sports broadcasting awards during his career in Northeast Ohio. And like some of the most legendary horsemen he’s chronicled, Joe joined them with his own banner hanging from the rafters of Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. A friend and mentor to many people over the years, Joe Tait was not just a member of the Cavaliers family; he was a part of Cavs history like no one else and his unique and heartfelt voice and perspective resonates throughout the history of the team. He will be sorely missed. “
Tait became known for some of his signature calls:
“It’s basketball time …”
“Pan! With the right hand!
“3 balls … OK!”
“To the line towards the track”
Craig Ehlo, who spent the majority of his career with the Cavs and was the subject of one of Tait’s most famous moments, reflected on Tait’s career on social media, sharing his first tweet in about five months.
“Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus and he was the voice of the Cleveland Cavaliers … Joe Tait,” Ehlo wrote. “The best and most loyal to the Cavaliers broadcaster. The man they call Eggs will have an omelet tonight in your honor. You have done good Joe, enjoy your eternal rest.
With the emojis of a microphone, folded hands and a crown to crown his personal message, LeBron James said, “Stay in Heaven my friend !! We will miss you dearly here!
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr referred to Tait as a “Cleveland legend” and “a kind, funny soul” in his memory. Mark Price, one of the players with his jersey hung next to Tait’s figurative microphone in the rafters, said, “You are loved and we are missed!” I will never forget his call when I rolled a 3 … “Price looks at him, shoots him, I get it!” The way only Joe could tell!
For all but two of the seasons, when he left in a dispute with then-owner Ted Stepien, Tait, inducted into the 2010 Naismith Hall of Fame media wing, was the voice of the radio – and sometimes television – of the team since its creation from 1970 to 2011.
He was there when the Cavs stumbled in the early seasons and when they reached the NBA Finals in 2007. He called The Miracle in Richfield in 1976 and Michael Jordan’s The Shot in 1989. He interviewed all of them. players from Austin Carr to James and all the coaches. from Bill Fitch to Byron Scott.
Even though Tait passed away on Wednesday after a long battle with kidney disease and liver cancer, the memories still hold true.
“Joe was also famous for his dry wit and pragmatic outlook on life and probably wouldn’t have wanted a big sentimental sendoff,” the Cavs concluded. “So, to paraphrase the legend, itself – let’s not say ‘goodbye’. Let’s just say, “Have a good night, everyone!” “
–
New Cavs Face Masks For Sale: Here’s where you can purchase Cleveland Cavaliers-themed face coverings for coronavirus protection, including a single mask ($ 14.99) and a 3-pack ($ 24.99). All NBA profits have been donated to charity.
More Cavaliers coverage
The latest stories of Joe Tait, voice of the Cavs and friend of so many people – Pluto
Joe Tait, voice of the Cavs for two generations, dies at 83
Cavaliers and NBA unveil 2022 All-Star Game logos
All-Star Game: Team LeBron defeats Team Durant, 170-150
Joe Tait talks about life, death, basketball and a cat named Penelope – Pluto
Riders must be active before the trade deadline; Will this lead to another deal?
Wade lives his dream with a guaranteed contract and a sense of belonging
Cavaliers can’t finish, lose to Indiana in final game before All-Star break
Heading into the All-Star break with playoff thoughts, knowing that health is key
[ad_2]
Source link