Bill Livingston's passing in 2026 marked a significant moment for me, as I reflected on our shared experience of covering the 2016 NBA Finals. It was a pivotal moment in Cleveland sports history, with the Cavs triumphing over the Golden State Warriors in Game 7, a feat no team had ever achieved. This victory, on Father's Day 2016, was a defining moment for many Cleveland sports fans, a rare title win by the city's big three teams: the Browns, the Cavs, and the Guardians. The story's magnitude was heightened by the fact that it was a comeback from a 3-1 deficit, a feat never before accomplished in NBA history. This narrative of resilience and triumph resonated deeply with sports enthusiasts, making it a memorable and iconic moment in the city's sports legacy.
My connection with Bill, or Livy as he was known, began in 1984 when he joined The Plain Dealer from the Philadelphia Inquirer. Our paths had crossed before, as I had covered the Tribe's loss in the 1997 World Series, a game that exemplified the bittersweet nature of sports, where success is often fleeting. Livy, with his elegant writing style and literary flair, had a unique perspective on sports, particularly the Olympics, track and field, and the NBA, which we both adored. His four books, including 'George Steinbrenner’s Pipe Dream: The ABL Champion Cleveland Pipers' and 'Above and Beyond: Tim Mack, the Pole Vault, and the Quest for Olympic Gold,' showcased his diverse interests and storytelling prowess.
Despite our professional rivalry, we shared a mutual respect and admiration for each other's work. Livy's writing was a source of inspiration, and his ability to craft compelling narratives about lesser-known sports figures, like 'Bubbles Hawkins,' was a testament to his skill. Our collaboration on the 2016 NBA Finals was a testament to our shared passion for sports journalism. The game was a nail-biter, with the score tied at 89-89 with 1:50 left. The tension was palpable as we both worked feverishly, typing away, with one story on the Cavs winning and another on their potential loss. The turning point came when LeBron James blocked a layup, followed by Kyrie Irving's game-winning 3-pointer, securing the Cavs' victory.
As the final seconds ticked away, Livy and I shared a moment of triumph, knowing we had captured a historic moment. The score, 93-89, was etched into the annals of Cleveland sports history, a testament to the Cavs' resilience and the power of sports journalism. Livy's phrase, 'Working without a net,' perfectly captured the intensity and unpredictability of that night, a night that would forever be etched in the memories of Cleveland sports fans.
