The entire Cleveland Cavaliers organization woke up on Tuesday morning to shocking news. The Cavs’ longtime play-by-play announcer Fred McLeod passed away Monday evening, the team announced.
Both current and former Cavs players quickly took to social media to send their respectful condolences to McLeod’s family.
Fred had one of those infectious smiles and personalities that lit up whatever room he was in. A true joy getting to know and working alongside him. Thoughts and prayers with him family 🙏🏽 https://t.co/p7S7cAwA60
— Larry Nance (@Larrydn22) September 10, 2019
It was a honor to work with him, his passion for the CAvs was infectious and created a culture of pride for the team and the city of Cleveland. Serious prayers go out to his family. https://t.co/sGhZYKhf8T
— Channing Frye (@channingfrye) September 10, 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.
— Kevin Love (@kevinlove) September 10, 2019
RIP Fred… You and your voice will be missed 😢 My deepest condolences to McLeod family…
— Cedi Osman (@cediosman) September 10, 2019
One of the first athletes to respond was Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James. The former Cavs icon was extremely sad and surprised to hear the news before sending his thoughts and prayers to the family.
Man WHAT!!!!??? 😢😢OMG this is extremely sad. @CavsFredMcLeod May you rest in Paradise my friend! @BethHMcLeod my prayers sent up above to you and your family!! 🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️ #RIPFred https://t.co/XWMHUqWJxf
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 10, 2019
Moments after sending his first message, James posted a video of the very moment McLeod named the Cavs 2016 NBA champs. In the video, McLeod’s passion for the team and skill as an announcer are both on full display.
One of the GREATEST days of all of our lives and @CavsFredMcLeod called it all with his buddy A.C! 😢🙏🏾❤️ https://t.co/q8r7go14IB
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 10, 2019
McLeod will forever be missed. He will also forever be a part of the deeply connected Cavs family.