Cleveland’s 12 Closest Championship Calls Since 1964

1976 Cavaliers

After averaging almost 55 losses in their first five years of existence, seeing the Cavs post 49 victories and defeat the Washington Bullets in a thrilling seven-game series qualified for miracle status. But on the eve of their Eastern Conference Finals matchup against the Boston Celtics, who had won the NBA title two years earlier, starting center Jim Chones broke a bone in his right foot during practice.

With 34-year-old Nate Thurmond starting in Chones’ customary spot, the Cavs were able to prevail in Games 3 and 4 at home but could never break through at Boston Garden. Their championship aspirations ended with a 94-87 Game 6 loss. Had the Cavs gotten past the Celtics, they would have faced a Phoenix Suns team which went only 42-40 during the regular season.

Next: 1968 Browns