Tristan Thompson has a huge following in Cleveland, despite leaving the city the past offseason to sign with the Boston Celtics.
The veteran big was drafted by the Cavaliers back in the 2011 NBA Draft. He got to become a crucial part of the ‘golden era’ of the Cleveland Cavaliers between 2015 and 2018.
Thompson reflected on his time with the franchise, which included the first title in the history of the organization in 2016 alongside LeBron James and Kyrie Irving.
(via Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com):
“For people in Cleveland, just as a guy who was basically one of them,” Thompson said. “Blue collar. Hardworking. Punch the clock. Against all odds. People in Cleveland are always looked over.
But people in Cleveland are genuine, hardworking, tough, gritty MFs. That’s how I was when I played. I hope people remember me as that. Hopefully one day my jersey is up in that arena.”
Thompson is an elite rebounder and versatile defender. Especially during the championship year, he was a crucial part of the Cavs’ plan to counter react to the 73-9 Warriors’ small-ball lineup.
