In 'There's Always This Year,' Hanif Abdurraqib reflects on the emotional journey of Cleveland Cavaliers fans, particularly in relation to LeBron James and the team's 2016 championship victory. He encapsulates the shared pain of fans prior to that win, and how it marked a moment of salvation. As the 2024 season progresses, the Cavaliers find themselves back in contention without LeBron, boasting a youthful, cohesive team. This surge raises questions of whether they can secure another championship, suggesting a promising future built on recent playoff experiences and strong early season performance.
Abdurraqib's prose intertwines personal experience with basketball culture, illustrating how the Cavs' journey mirrors the emotional landscape of Cleveland fans.
The 2016 championship was a religious experience for Cavs fans, othering those who do not share in the team’s struggles and spirit.
Cleveland's return to contention brings back hope. This season's young, cohesive team offers an alternative to depending solely on LeBron's presence.
With past struggles behind them and current momentum, this young Cavaliers team shows promise for a championship within the next few years.
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