LeBron James, the Cleveland Cavalier, needs a deep rewind | CHOSEN: Chapter 3

To catch up on Chapters 1 & 2, check this out: • Chosen
After decades defined by owners, GMs, and opponents, the 21st century ushered in an era of Cleveland Cavaliers history commanded by one man. First, the Cavaliers chose the homegrown prodigy with a lucky lottery ticket. When they failed him, he departed ... then chose to return, assembling the team that reached the precipice of a championship at the moment we find them in 2016.
Let's remember how that all happened. Let's talk about LeBron James.
Directed by Jiazhen Zhang
Written and produced by Seth Rosenthal
Art direction by Michael Das and Phil Pasternak
Additional editing by Ryan Simmons
*One note regarding the conclusion: Austin Carr and Fred McLeod (RIP) called Game 7 on a private feed for the arena watch party in downtown Cleveland, but they were physically at the game in Oakland. Apologies if the wording in that section was confusing.
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[@SecretBaseSBN]

Chapter 3 of Chosen is finally here. If you happened to miss the first episodes, check those out here: kzbin.info/aero/PLUXSZMIiUfFRixtkW91cZuYFaKcNdL9gs Let us know what you think, we love you all, see you soon

[@Imperator37th]

This is like the best longform journalism, in video form. Awesome job!

[@samortmann5003]

Can we get a 2016 Cavs collapse to follow this up?

[@Damion-]

I live this series

[@blakelip3]

More Dorktown plz

[@Maquenchie]

its not a book report if it's on armadillos Seth, come on man! 51:06

[@chriswtheafro]

The fact that these videos are free is absolutely insane

[@HAMID___]

Shhhhhhh

[@jajaja9661]

They’re just putting clips together, why would we pay for it?

[@TyBeTroLLing]

@@jajaja9661 this is mainstream media type editing tho

[@majestyirving1372]

Aye man your a lil loud lol

[@weskovach1955]

Agreed. Best sports content anywhere and has been for a while

[@heavenlyrey]

if this is gonna be a series of documentaries about teams, count me in man.

[@jakebuchsbaum3348]

They need to do one for the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs

[@mr.clockwork727]

@@jakebuchsbaum3348 the Chicago Cubs would literally be 10+ hours and I’m here for it

[@19eightyforeisnow]

Buffalo Bills super losses. Vikings eternally coming up short, also the current crazy that is the Astros

[@aboringday6241]

I mean the seattle mariners one exist. Its brilliant.

[@samortmann5003]

@@19eightyforeisnow Set the edge already talked about the Bills super bowl losses, But a Jim Kelly/Andre Reed/Bruce Smith untitled would be great.

[@logicaldude3611]

It's easy to forget that Love was intentionally put on Curry due to a couple switches from GS, but he was able to lock down Curry and hold him to a very difficult shot which saved the game. Love was never known for his defense and definitely wasn't a perimeter defender, but he came up with one of the most epic defensive stands in NBA history. What a great moment.

[@jaybronjames9680]

Shows u how trash curry is of he can’t score on love lol

[@huntercheese45]

@@jaybronjames9680 lol. Look at this dummy^^

[@jaybronjames9680]

@@huntercheese45 why couldn’t he score w the game on the line then

[@bigchonkerraccoon5046]

@@jaybronjames9680 he just won his fourth ring buddy 😂, I’m sure you have something stupid to say to that too.

[@jaybronjames9680]

@@bigchonkerraccoon5046 not a real ring injured playoff run again

[@JOneHundredTV]

The 48 special is probably the most important game in LeBron's career that people either barely talk about or remember. That man literally single handedly destroyed the "beast of the east" and ruined that whole franchise by himself. Whenever I get down on myself and need a pick me up, I watch the end of the 4th quarter and OT of that game and I instantly get my motivation back!

[@geordiejones5618]

Lebron has the greatest single game achievement (48 special) the greatest single series achievement (2016 FMVP) a handful of the greatest seasons of all time (09/12/13/18) and most likely the all time greatest career. He was the best faster than anyone else for longer than anyone else. What a legend.

[@Jstacksxxx]

i mean to be fair the "beast of the east" replaced 4x DOY ben wallace with a washed chris webber so i think they lost that nickname when they lost ben. Still one of the best nba preformances in NBA history so not downplaying lebron, i just cringe hearing that nickname for the 07 pistons

[@christianhilbert3116]

The pistons were old and washed compared to how they were in 04 and 05 they weren’t the same team and it showed…. Still a nice achievement nonetheless but not the beast of the East not at all

[@sunnywestside4210]

FACTS!

[@tchalla7828]

I think his 45 vs BOS in ECF tops it.

[@girishpashupati5218]

The greatest sports KZbin channel to ever exist, ill say it again but I probably don't have to.

[@bangaamen501]

I second that

[@bruhmagic1323]

I third that

[@poke4771]

I fourth that

[@datguitarplayer1656]

How can such a great channel have such a stupid name...????

[@zavinat1485]

Kot4q>>>

[@68020845865]

this documentary was a masterpiece, and it was completely free

[@GodBody-BodyofGod]

The last installment was rushed. Really didn’t go into the Cavs 2011 rebuild at all and the front office change right before lebron. Kyrie vs dion waiters. Kyrie vs the Chris Grant front office. Kyrie rumors that Cavs wouldn’t offer the max in 2014. As a Cavs fan, the Kyrie rebuild was what I wanted the most

[@henrysteiner8136]

@@GodBody-BodyofGod very valid point but still a good watch

[@danny7906]

love that pfp bro best band ever

[@nakaine7]

You just have to give Google your data

[@nickcostanza8730]

@@GodBody-BodyofGod I'm not sure this was an issue with this being rushed, more that the episode would be seen as more appealing/thematic if it strictly followed the Lebron arc

[@elstupido4575]

Lebron’s second stint in Cleveland put the full power of LeGM on display.

[@amadoarjaybabon4020]

Agree Lol

[@NewAgeSlaves]

Swear bro im watching it back bugging out he coming back and dudes getting moved left and right and former teammates signed 😭

[@jaybrick8973]

why did he go after love he didnt fit the cavs really he was never the same once he left the twolves

[@kvltizt]

@@jaybrick8973 they won a ring, it was a good move

[@bmkeesee]

@@jaybrick8973 Kevin love was the same player, he was just playing the 3rd option and working within a system. That cavaliers team was a monster, they just ran into an absolute buzz saw of a golden state team with 4 HOF superstars on it.

[@djprime92]

We absolutely need more of these. The bucs starting with Kareem going to Giannas?? Yes please. The Mavs history up to Dirk finally getting his ring? These are epic

[@withalittlehelpfrom3]

Well now we need one for the Denver Nuggets!

[@wakkawakkagaming3710]

Not just basketball either, how about one for the St. Louis Blues? Or- my god the Cubs? Red Sox? White Sox? The Eagles would be insane, so would the Rams.

[@ZephyrDTV]

Yes Please... 1.) Bucks Kareem to Giannis, 2.) Nuggets Melo to Jokic 3.) Spurs Robinson to Duncan 4.) Mavs Rise with Dirk, 5.) GSW Dynasty with Steph, maybe from Ellis to Curry, 6.) or the Rising stars of the NBA 2020s

[@schuckdaddy1318]

Seth and Secret Base, I cannot thank you enough. As someone who was born and raised in Cleveland, who lived through the Indians treading in mediocrity, who suffered through the worst 20 year stretch of any NFL franchise, and who watched LeBron arrive, depart, and eventually bring this city to glory, this series was a masterpiece of storytelling and brilliantly crafted with care. And to wrap it up with Austin Carr and the late legend Fred McLeod's game 7 call brought tears to my eyes. Truly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.

[@grugbyorf828]

I’ve lived my whole life in Youngstown Ohio like an hour south east of Cleveland and I had to pause every few minutes towards the end to let out screams of joy remembering all the details of game 7.

[@buckeyenation1681]

Same Nathan, I literally tear up everytime I hear that call

[@Jweezyization]

100%

[@brandoncollins6366]

Yeah that's sucked when he left. Can't blame him though. perfect opportunity to do something. I doubt anything will ever be done in Ohio again anytime soon... I hope so! Go BROWNS!

[@supachef_dmoney_4]

Ohio Against The World 💯

[@pitakafoa1214]

Ngl that ending with the home announcers was so heartwarming it got me a lil teary eyed. You can feel how much it means to them

[@nohohank02]

felt exactly the same way, teary eyed and a wide ear to ear smile.

[@dawakat08]

Yeah I teamed up a bit there too, I remember watching that game with my dad and him celebrating like crazy that Kyrie James had won the championship and all I could do was laugh because he combined Lebron and Kyrie lol

[@osufan77]

I'm still crying. This is literally the documentary I've always felt this story deserved.

[@biscuits336]

I'm not even from Cleveland, but I felt it. I felt it lol

[@CSDonohue11]

Thanks LeBron , For making all these Dudes cry , like it actually matters. You Da Man LBJ

[@TheJohnharple]

Hearing Fred McCloud and Austin Carr at the end made me cry. I will always remember where I was during that game. I will always remember how that felt as all the people I was with jumped in the air at the same time when those final seconds ticked away. Even watching it from a small town in Ohio thousands of miles away it felt different. Those final 3 minutes... Bron's block, kyrie's 3 and Love's last stand felt like an eternity. It was truly a moment that stood still. As the seconds ticked away and we knew it was over... was one of the greatest feelings I have ever had.... redemption... For The Land. I don't know if I will ever feel like that again with sports. I don't know if it can ever feel that good. I sat here and listed to McCloud and Carr with tears in my eyes 7 years later. You can crown another champion every year but you can't take that championship away. Cleveland.... this is for you.

[@TheJohnharple]

Also on another note on the late Fred McCloud. I'm so sad that he is gone. He brought life to this game. He lived and breathed with the Cavs and it showed. We celebrated with him not because it was his job but he was just as invested as we were. I'm glad he was able to experience this moment before his untimely passing. It's not the same without you. I wish that you could sit courtside and call the new Cavs games. You could see how much fun and incredible this new team is.

[@presidentialkingdom2201]

Bron going to the finals in his second playoffs appearance in just unbelievable.

[@juniore588]

u gotta respect booker aswell he did it in his first

[@rogeliomora417]

@Alejandro Salazar yeah but the west was still tougher than East

[@christopherliang6879]

@Alejandro Salazar A finals is still a finals. He was incredibly clutch and scored so many points along the way. We can acknowledge the circumstances and recognize greatness at the same time

[@samesame3667]

@@juniore588 lebron didn’t have one of the best point guards ever and a solid bench take lebron off that team the don’t make the playoffs

[@andrewbledsoe131]

@Alejandro Salazar excuses. All teams deal with injury. Don't use it as an excuse

[@georgeprchal3924]

"Blocked by James!" will certainly be one of the most iconic calls in Finals history.

[@dusk6159]

That with its 2016 blocking compilation before it.

[@TheRealDillPickles]

With Mark Jackson pausing in awe before simply saying "wow"

[@Yvp13]

One of? Bro it definitely IS the most iconic call in finals history.

[@andyhighroller8217]

Maaaaan showed that Iggy was juuust past his prime. 2015 Iggy, Livingston, West, Draymond and Steph would’ve been able to push to Game 7 vs. Toronto. They may have won it if Klay wasn’t hurt(led the game 6 in points despite playing 3 quarters hounded by Kawhi’s defense and being the main defender on kawhi keeping him under 15 in 3 quarters.) But Iggy and Livingston showed they just couldn’t keep up with mid 20’s Siakam, FVV, and Lowry. Livingston took 26 3’s his entire time in Oakland, and Iggy at best was around 1/3 a game, averaging .8/2.4 as a warrior. No spacing and having a 6’3 star by himself meant there was no “force a bucket”. It’s why the dubs could only beat the Cavs when they were excellent at every other position aside from a true big wing. It’s the position they’ve lacked for a LONG time outside the KD era. They just don’t have one of those Tatum/Kawhi/Siakam/LeBron/Millsap/Heyward/Butler/PG13/Giannis/Middleton/Jerami Grant/Aaron Gordon/DeAndre Hunter/Patrick Williams/Luka/MPJ/SaddiqBey/TJ Warren/Marcus Morris/Ingram/Zion/RJ/Randle/Tobias Harris/DeRozan/OG types. Hell even Wiggins would’ve been a huge help if he was there instead of McKinnie, but Wiggins himself is still 6’7/195 and after Loon and Wiseman, the biggest player on the team. I’m not saying they need a 6’11/260lber, but a 6’8-220+ guy that can shoot and is big enough to score on average bigs in the post is kind of the marquee spot in the NBA. The versatile wing-forward/big wing type. Hopefully they can draft a Wagner/Jalen Johnson(at 14 is a steal)/Scottie Barnes/even Trey Murphy type. They’d win the off-season if they(somehow) draft Mitchell and Wagner/J. Johnson, and sign Patty Mills and Trevor Ariza/Wilson Chandler. Maybe a Marc Gasol/Willy Hernangomez/Boban/Olynyk/Robin Lopez/Taj Gibson type as well, so we don’t spend so much time with Loon/Dray/Paschall/Toscano Anderson on legit centers. Valancuinas would be a steal for GSW, tho it’d take a lot to get him. If they *don’t want to wait* for Wiseman, id try to sign and trade Oubre, with Wiseman and their lotto picks for ChristianWood, Danuel House, and the Rockets 1st rounder and at least they can add a Suggs/Green, though Cunningham would be the best possible fit imaginable from this draft. Ben Simmons would be nice… if he was able to shoot just a smidge better than Draymond. Even if Ben put up 30/100 in a season xans shot 70%+ from FT he’d be great, but his best fit would be if we didn’t have draymond/traded him for Saddiq Bey+Mason Plumlee. HOWEVER, it’s not like the Dubs lineup of Steph/Bazemore/Wiggins/Draymond/Looney wasn’t a top ten lineup at the end of the season. Simmons and Dray COULD coexist, as the offense has thrived with draymond+one more non shooter. Just like it did with Steph/Klay/Iggy/Livingston/Dray. Ben is just a Jumbo Livingston. He’s a bit bigger than Lokney and has more athleticism+better passing… Ofc you get Dame and worry abt everything else later, right?

[@jeremiahtisdell4823]

@@andyhighroller8217 I need that essay in MLA format

[@gcvvideos9942]

This is peak SB, I hope they make more of these forever. 🙏

[@TheAcer1981]

Amen to that

[@universe-ie2mk]

just like the mariners dorktown. it was incredible and has high replay value. i've watched the last two parts of this 2 times apiece

[@ThorHC11]

@@jvanek8512 What? There is literally no politics in this whatsoever. Unless, of course, you're referring to the moment where Seth said Dan Gilbert had "way too much money". And honestly, if you're gonna let 2 seconds out of a 71 minute video leave that much of a mark on you, that sounds like a you problem, and it's kind of a stretch to refer to that as "politics" anyway.

[@speedy1072]

@@ThorHC11 he might be referring to other content but idk... Jon made a fantastic video about terrorism using his chart party style and the tv show “24” people like this guy get so up arms when other people have opinions.

[@thejvguru]

It's been five years, and I still cry tears of joy and shake when I watch the final seconds of that Game 7.

[@maplebear6527]

Hopefully a lie

[@thejvguru]

@@maplebear6527, it's not. Why?

[@Blake_Laisure]

Same here!!!

[@lebronjames7094]

Which series?

[@emmanuelmondesir8677]

Lebron makes me realise how much a player legacy depends on who is surrounding him. NBA often makes you forget that Basketball is a team Sport.

[@ChiseledAdonis]

Masterclass video series! Got me over here emotional like I was a damn Cavs fan!

[@JetsandBowties]

8

[@rlmalonzo1184]

Me too! Im not even a Cavs fan and Im not even from America but this video was great. I got goosebumps watching this

[@deezmixednutz6660]

"Waaaait a minute" 😂😂 Love your stuff bruh

[@hunny___]

Back to the East. Back to the west.

[@ohioboy1878]

Yeah I'm not a cavs fan but I live near Cleveland and I felt it

[@IANWANYONYI]

"The Cavaliers that chose him made the finals once in seven seasons. The Cavaliers he chose did it on the first try" That, my friends, is the true power of LeGM

[@awesomole]

LeTaco

[@tiktokexposed898]

LeGOAT

[@wjones8149]

The Cavs that chose him paid too much, the Cavs he chose paid too much. Just a case of desperation on the Cavs side, and growing up on LeBron's side. Gotta crawl before you walk. He learned how to walk later than the GOAT and the GOATs protege. But he's a hell of a player, that Lebron. Got to be one of the best ever.

[@angelusgnz5784]

@@wjones8149 kobe only won early in his career cuz he had prime shaq from day 1. if not, he probably never wins a chip. also, michael and lebron won their first chips at damn near the same age. stop falling over yourself and making wrong statements just to gargle and swallow jordan.

[@gobot581]

@@wjones8149 it’s called irreplaceable when Tristan signed the Mavs had similar deal on the table and there was a big drought in free agency bigs. They don’t sign him they don’t win. People attack Lebron for literally doing what the Cavs front office couldn’t do. In a four year span they were going to start Anthony Bennet Andrew Wiggins Kyrie Irving Tristan Thompson and maybe a young Dion Waiters aka another lottery team with 3 young 1st picks. I mean this is almost impossibly incompetent. He saved that franchise again even then wanting to keep over Wiggins getting Love would of been a mistake they never would of won that chip as overpriced Love became my point is all of the criticized moves simply had no better alternatives unless the answer is not winning a chip. He literally brings a championship to a city people thought would be impossible and we attack him become he couldn’t do it again vs arguably the greatest teAm ever.

[@rafaelcordani3895]

I'm brazilian, so most of my emotional relationship with sports comes from my football club (soccer). But this 3 episode series is what I'm gonna show people who want to understand why this is so important to us. When the tears came down my face when this ended, I was sure that sports are one of the greatest human practices. Nothing else compares.

[@ArJayDM]

No matter what anyone says; lebron has a huge heart. He didn't have to do this for his town but he felt he owed it to them, cause that's where he's from. Not everyone has that kind of pride or honor.

[@versatillion15]

He only went back because they had pieces to win

[@LMERicoTv]

@@versatillion15he could of went anywhere but chose them instead other teams had the pieces to win also, the fact he trusted them for a second stint and trusted some of the guys there to win says a lot

[@edwells4769]

@@versatillion15 true of course, but it still wasn't a guarantee. It was a magical win though for sure.

[@strang7739]

@@versatillion15he could’ve joined the warriors instead 😂

[@kNaild]

Crazy he even went back they got lucky by being bad and attacked him after he couldn't fix their trash

[@gguddaye1]

As a Warriors fan, I'll say this: If they had to blow a 3-1 lead to anyone, I'm glad it was to LeBron. Leading your hometown team to their first ever title and the city's first sports title in over 50 years is what sports are all about. As someone who witnessed the Warriors win their first title in 40 years the year before, I'm glad that Northeast Ohio citizens and Cavs fans everywhere were able to experience that.

[@EssentiallyBlack]

Respect

[@noobyoverlord]

Still sad to see the team that was destined to do it all, and almost did, fall apart in the final stretch.

[@katsu_papi]

it's sad that a "destined rivalry" was ruined after that finals..

[@gguddaye1]

@@katsu_papi it’s funny how the basketball gods work to align things back together tho. Now the dude that KD left (Russ) has a chance to win a ring with the dude that KD has always been chasing (Bron). And they could do it against the team that KD joined (Warriors), followed by the team that he’s on now (Nets). Can’t make this up lmao

[@katsu_papi]

@@gguddaye1 i would still take that Cavs-Warriors rivalry any day...two small-market franchise unlike LA and New York. that's personally exciting and fun to watch for me.. .

[@rborden917]

Are y’all eligible for an Emmy? Because dammit, y’all deserve one after this documentary!! Excellent work SB!!

[@panito3000]

These guys are Pulitzer material. When I watch their videos I learn, reminisce and have lots of fun at the same time. I’m a politics journalist, and the stuff I’ve come across watching Secret Base has improved me as a professional. Nothing but respect and admiration for these people. All of them, not just Seth, but Clara and the rest too. This is truly something special.

[@1stnamebr406]

I said the same thing. This is flawless! He deserves something in media for this!

[@TommyMissus]

6:38 you made a GREAT point. When he was in high school, u can watch his old games, and even tho he and everyone knew he could athletically overwhelm every team every time he touched the ball, he still would read the floor and create opportunities for his teammates. You'd be watching like "why doesn't he jus score every time this is a joke" lol He was just becoming great.

[@christosioannou9628]

I was spoiled. My dad starting taking me to Cavs games in the mid-late 2000s. Thank you for making this series so I could learn so much more about the history of my hometown team.

[@jonahmishaga1995]

The amount of emotion coming from the announcer at the end of this could make a grown man cry. Coming from someone who lives in Cleveland I can verify this comment

[@jaytrip542]

I cried. And I'm not even a Cavaliers fan. Just a fringe basketball fan. The emotions, sports generate are just incomprehensible.

[@INZ421]

I tear up still every time I hear the call, that was one of those once in a lifetime moments

[@INZ421]

@Gerald Dunbar and Steve Kerr saved one for Jordan, next

[@alexc6025]

@Gerald Dunbar kinda the same thing happened with me and your mom. I was a little down then all the sudden she come out of nowhere and makes those clutch shots so I gave here a nice clutch shot on her face. Some of it must of trickled down since she didn't clean it up and I think that's how you were born. Sorry

[@vis5232]

I've waited three long episodes to hear "welcome to a moment in history", and it was all worth it. I've felt like my heart was hugged and it squeezed a little drop of water from my cornea. Wtf, I'm not even a north american, just a huge fan of basketball. Best basketball documentary channel on KZbin, hands down.

[@raezwhat3413]

im not even a fan of basketball but i love sports documentaries, and this made me tear up

[@michaelsteese528]

Gang gang, my G. Ball is love 🏀 ❤️

[@ktat01]

I still think the 2018 playoff run by Lebron was the best performance I’ve ever seen. It’s a shame it ended how it did..

[@Rmadden727]

The 2007 series against the pistons had me in disbelief. He scored 29 of their last 30 in 16 minutes on 11-13 shooting. He may not be the best ever to do it. But I have never seen a player more dominant. Not even shaq or Jordan in their prime. You saw everyone on the pistons defending him throw up theirs arms as he dunked on every single one of them.

[@maplebear6527]

@@Rmadden727 That Pistons team is the greatest defensive squad ever assembled. Bron was just that good

[@seankotch5055]

lol that one season absolutely broke the city of toronto

[@marvineodidi]

An absolute masterclass series. God bless your work Secret Base. "Block by James", gives me chills to this day.

[@tylercleveland7344]

As a Cleveland fan I cried at the end even though I've lived and seen it back hundreds of times. Thank you for this. It was astounding. And RIP Fred McCloud. One of the best voices in sports.

[@SecretBaseSBN]

RIP Fred, RIP Joe Tait

[@schuckdaddy1318]

To end the series with their call gave me goosebumps. One of the greatest ambassadors for Northeast Ohio. RIP

[@WillieBabyXXI]

"He hit that shot from Euclid!" Hahahahaha. RIP to the best play by play man I've ever heard. Of course, I'm biased. But still

[@rieldebonk1044]

You need to get help if you cried at this. I can book an appointment at the psych ward? I'm just wishing the best for you, stay safe :)

[@tjwatson0403]

Me too. That was well produced

[@eternallove4248]

“18801 days” Man I really felt that one. I can only imagine what the Clevelanders felt during those final seconds. This was truly one of the greatest moments in sports history. I always get teary eyed when I watch those final moments

[@willh1219]

It was insane. I remember just walking outside to my car and laying on the horn in celebration as the entire neighborhood did the same. I'll never forget it.

[@danmcnaughton2886]

I was typing a reply to your message as a Clevelander and it got really long so I put it on main page about what it was like for me and my city.

[@Zoebelle1369]

Growing up in northeast ohio you always heard about the epic fails from sports in from Cleveland, It’s completely engrained in our culture. It seems like every era has its “heart break” moment for me it was LeBron leaving to go to the heat. The cavs winning meant so much because LeBron came back

[@coolmobkenny3038]

well, in Akron, i was pretty fookin shwasted at a VIP watch party event... i couldn't even watch them celebrate after the win because i was too busy hugging, kissing, and wiping my tears on dozens of people whom mostly i haven't seen a day in my life before, as if we've all lived together in the same household all my life and we just won the mega millions or something.. i personally felt like a champion!

[@OldSchoolECW]

I was at the college houses near Kent State University when this happened watching with a bunch of friends. The moment this happened, me and another friend of mine ran out of the house screaming in the streets, and we weren't the only ones. A bunch of college students from all the other houses all ran out onto the streets and we formed a mosh pit. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.

[@abdessamad2128]

I live in Algeria (north of Africa), i've been and still am a football (soccer) fan, i never really cared about basketball, but i discovered your channel and i enjoy watching these mini-docs from time to time, but man, never in my life thought that i'd be crying near the end of a video like this, LJ is truly an amazing player, to give such a gift to his hometown after all of what happened is really poetic, great video 👍

[@saddingus1331]

Diehard Spurs fan here, that ending had me shed a few tears. The raw emotion from the commentators is too much.

[@nickmeltzer1998]

“Blocked by james” and “bosh, back out to allen, bang!” Are the most iconic finals calls of all time.

[@HarrisonHollers]

Breen is awesome!

[@LifewitKian]

@@HarrisonHollers I love that call

[@sassysalmon93]

Iconic Lebron calls*

[@jjleblanc8151]

“Shot blocked by Antetokoumnpo, what a play by Giannis”

[@str8duval]

I'd also add "ohhh a spectacular move!! by Michael Jordan"

[@Coffeeguy18]

LeBron summed it all up when he said, “Cleveland, this is for you!”

[@dusk6159]

"....I'm home"

[@enjikap1217]

"and then lebron ate the game. the whole building. nobody else existed except lebron james" is an incredible quote

[@tmalecki1521]

I will NEVER forget watching that Game 5 in Detroit. And I’m not even a Pistons or Cavs fan. Just simply one of the most amazing takeovers I’ve ever seen in any sporting event

[@ClaytonCrowley]

What a masterpiece. Goosebumps.

[@abrahancruz4698]

Just like the ones I get at the end of your lebron video

[@kfc4056]

Yo it’s Clayton

[@arashmoqadam_tabrizi1723]

Where's making the case?

[@LetMyPeopleG0]

All I can do, is agree with you

[@gennoboy]

Big fan of your Making The Case series as well man! Keep up doing great videos.

[@jakemitchell1132]

“It’s time to talk about Lebron James.” ESPN: “Now we’re talking!”

[@Itallmakessense556]

Only thing to talk about is the GOAT King James

[@tylerwhitehorn5365]

@@Itallmakessense556 spelled mj wrong 😑

[@jorgeedgardo6279]

@@tylerwhitehorn5365 mj not the GOAT anymore man ... LBJ is

[@jluchette]

Skip Bayless made the last ten years of his career talking ONLY about BronBron & Brady. Easy money.

[@PMKru]

@@jluchette Thats A Fact They Cant Argue That. Jordan Is #2 Now All Legends Eventually Level Out With Time & A New Legend Is The Greatest. That Legend Who Got It Right Now Just So Happens To Be LBJ Lol

[@GZeta789]

This is storytelling of the highest order. I've been following Secret Base's videos for a couple of years now, but this series is on a league of its own. Just brilliant.

[@reesericdotci]

I feel bad not throwing money y'all's way, that was incredible.

[@Bricks_shakur]

When you’re about to eat a great meal in front of the TV this is the best channel to do it with

[@Bale4Bond]

Murica!

[@SaintFrenchy]

Lol big facts

[@maxh276]

Yep

[@fadilsp3]

I dont get why darius miles say that lebron will hop on their bandwagon when they literally won 17 games...

[@HighlightWorkshop]

Lol

[@OhioTies]

I seen in a interview he said the media clipped it to make it seem like they was talking ish about him

[@pillowhead5689]

Apparently miles had like lebron for a long time

[@JubioHDX]

@@pillowhead5689 yea they had been friends for years already people forget that lebron used to visit their facility and worked out with the in the summer away from there too. plus what nba player is gonna call a high schooler the savior to their team before they get there lol

[@coolj9496]

There was also a guy (can't remember if it was Miles or someone else) who said something like 'Yeah, that Lebron guy is cool, he'll definitely help me up my scoring numbers for this season. The Cavaliers are my team'

[@ucfde47]

This was so thorough. So accurate. So well-produced. It’s hard to capture that feeling of the pure adulation in 2016. Some 5 years later, you did that. Thank you.

[@tomaslekis3262]

I’m five years younger than LeBron so I essentially grew up with him (or watching him, I guess) and that finals... damn it hit different. I remember after they won, as soon as Dorris Burke went up to interview, I started crying like a baby lol. That will probably forever be my happiest sports memory.

[@cooperhutson7869]

2016 Warriors: "I am inevitable" 2016 Lebron: "And I... am... Lebron *"BLOCK BY JAMES!!"*

[@Dangic23]

Assisted block. Andre had to double clutch to evade 1st defender

[@wlee9888]

@@Dangic23 GBOAT greatest block of all time.

[@sunsetclub4132]

I WANT IGUODALA

[@jtalkalot19]

Real Funny because Lebron became LeThanos just 2 years later... and got another infinity stone to boot.

[@maxh276]

@@janoycresnova9156 it's a block and was called as a block. Keep crying hater ✌️

[@newagestudios408]

Guys, Lebron led a group of average to below average players to the finals at age 22 in only his 2nd playoff appearance…

[@newagestudios408]

@@janoycresnova9156 funny you mentioned that, all the teams he beat going into that finals all had 2 players each play in the 2007 all star game and the Cavs had 1, 22 year old Lebron with much less talent around him. You and the other haters would’ve killed him if he couldn’t get pass them, let’s not act like he was going against practice squad players

[@ryanw9122]

@@janoycresnova9156 it wsa extremely impressive for a 22 year old to carry his team for three playoff series stop denying it.

[@rafaelfermin4619]

@@janoycresnova9156 damn you’re a casual casual

[@davidmartinez52420]

@@janoycresnova9156 They don't like to acknowledge that the teams he faced in 2007 weren't that stellar themselves. To them, the "Competition Argument" only applies to the Finals since it's an empirical fact that LeBron faced a pretty weak Eastern Conference.

[@Riri-oj1zs]

@@rafaelfermin4619 No, you are just an idi0t who cannot prove a point. LeBron averaged 22 in 36% shooting with SIX turnovers/game. Where did that 'carrying his teammates' go?

[@dariusjohnson9040]

This was great. I grew up watching LeBron James. It's a blessing to see people give this man his flowers while he's here!

[@MadJohnsonProduction]

This was an amazing series. I've been watching your channel for a while now you guys really know how to break down Moments in Sports. Keep up the great work.

[@thekingofirony]

i love these episodes. its like untitled and collapse all in one.

[@rowan2000vd]

And rewinder as well

[@onunka16]

Not even a Cavs fan but damn I felt this big time. Great, great work Secret Base.

[@andrisbogdans5103]

It's unfair that the organization failed the man for 7 straight years and yet LeBron is taking all the criticism from the fans

[@liptoncherry2436]

Lebron is loved by cleveland fans

[@maxh276]

@@liptoncherry2436 ya but back then the owner and fans slandered him after they gave him no help and he carried them for a near decade. He blessed them by coming back.

[@Diana-gv5ut]

one of the shittiest front office i have ever seen ngl.

[@liptoncherry2436]

@@maxh276 Yeah I remember that. I knew a lot of people that were angry (from Cleveland). He didn’t deserve the hate, but he did receive it. Now everyone in cleveland loves him

[@liptoncherry2436]

@TheRealBandito Right. “The Decision” was garbage

[@crazymac3444]

Thank you!! I'm from Cleveland and I can't thank you enough for this video. Great work! You really captured our fanbase and what we have been through

[@ernestwilliams8737]

I'm not even a Cleveland Cavaliers fan and that gave me chills down my spine phenomenal documentary. Hoping you do more of these documentaries they are phenomenal.

[@stoozdee]

This shows up in my feed, and I let out an audible gasp, my hand moving quickly to my mouth.

[@mariaholland1754]

Same😂

[@BigBoy-bx1dw]

I was straight up giddy

[@stoozdee]

@@mariaholland1754 there’s some kind of magic going on @SB

[@stillfree1133]

No one will appreciate what this man has done until he retires

[@ThatGuy-en2nn]

Not even after. The age of social media got people straight hating. Though I find it silly to say "no one". Just alot of people...

[@stillfree1133]

@Kristopher Bailey say what you want about being the most hated but he will down as one of best to ever do it

[@ThatGuy-en2nn]

@@stillfree1133 No....if people hate him they won't acknowledge his greatness or believe he was good. You're underestimating the ignorance.

[@stillfree1133]

@@ThatGuy-en2nn if 51% of the people hate you and 49% love you… you’re doing something right it gives people something to talk about

[@ThatGuy-en2nn]

@@stillfree1133 Try 60 hate to 40 like. People gonna pretend he was a bench player when he retires lmao.

[@flightjam]

So ya'll all went a head and made a full length documentary! WOW! Honestly, the effort put in this and the quality is astounding. Thank you!

[@krzyk109]

This is one of the best constructed documentary I have ever seen on this website or even the entire world wide web. It's my second viewing of it nearly a year to the day later and the script holds up, even though theres 40 years to contain in a 3 part series. Thank you from the bottom of my heart as watching this game live and being able to see greatness with my own eyes that probably won't ever happen again. It's the best story ever told without using fiction, which makes convaying it properly much more of a challange.

[@redskullz1249]

Normies: "The Last Dance is the greatest sports documentary of all time." Me, an intellectual: "Have you heard of Secret Base or SB Nation?" I thought you guys would never come close to topping the Mariners doc, but this comes very, very close.

[@davidmartinez52420]

There's tons of sports documentaries as good as or better than The Last Dance and anything on this channel(which I am a big fan of, don't get me wrong). So then why are you worried about the opinions of normies? However few they may be, that is.

[@dionruffin3996]

The last dance is top 10

[@erikkurschner3017]

As a chicago fan, last dance was fantastic, but i will say i liked mariners more

[@maxh276]

The last dance is a great series, but it's a terrible documentary in the sense of the word. A lot of old players have said so, it was moreso an MJ puff piece than a documentary

[@davidmartinez52420]

@@maxh276 A lot of documentaries are puff pieces, but with that said I don't know how you call The Last Dance one since Jordan left things in there that made him look not so good. That's not what puff pieces do. Before that doc, it wasn't fully known just how hard he was on his teammates. The doc officially exposed that, and lots of people were critical of him for it. How can you call it a puff piece?

[@216Eva]

Clevelander here, this was the greatest week in Cleveland history

[@thekidfromcleveland3944]

Damn right😎

[@richardnunez3474]

Excellent piece, this was a long documentary, but a very deserving one. It was done so well. I know this took many people and much time to make. So thank you.

[@shaq98nl]

Watched this when it came out, and this is my second time, damn, really great story telling it brings me a tear to my eyes, those finals moments, if Philly wins eventually you have to do this, because it hurts bro

[@CrackSkellington]

This is Seth’s version of “fighting in the age of loneliness” and I am very much on board for it

[@tryhardfinessedyou]

About 100 times better imo.

[@SimuLord]

Way better than the MMA doc. More on a level with the Seattle Mariners magnum opus from Jon and Alex.

[@thatguyluis]

Agreed bro, when that series is first released I'm actually waiting for weekly upload on it at that time. And that's how I feel about this, except I'm really into basketball more than MMA.

[@cjishere97]

FITAOL left me feeling empty, this gave me hope

[@hunny___]

@@tryhardfinessedyou no

[@nonstop]

God bless LeBron and Secret Base! 🙏

[@maxh276]

Weren't you the channel making a hater video right after LeBron & the Lakers lost to the Suns even though they were injured? A bit hypocritical imo.

[@eddiesamuel3721]

@@maxh276 😂

[@Ballfondler624]

@@blackscreen1810 how is it criticizing if the dude was injured

[@beramtaib4713]

Screw china

[@takemeout5687]

@@blackscreen1810 I could say the some for the Jordan stans who explode every time their idol skip bayless doesn't drop a lebron video every 2 minutes

[@glennsatterfield1755]

So many blame LeBron for "superteams". While forgetting that the Boston Big 3 happened immediately after LeBron dragged that Cavs team to the finals in 2007 with not another legit top player on the team. They got praised for winning a championship with the big 3 and LeBron got crucified for basically doing the samething

[@dylanmcanulty7845]

This series was great! I'd love to see something similarly done about the 2019 Raptors. Cheers!

[@lawrenceyarquah257]

The game 5 vs the pistons is not appreciated enough… That was 1 vs 5 basketball and Bron still won

[@jameshicks4685]

It really wasnt tho… Lebron had a monster game, to me that game is top 3 or 4 of his career but the bench really kept cavs in game… They outscored Detroit bench 23-13. That help give Lebron the rest to do what he did.

[@youtubewatcher4955]

@@jameshicks4685 So the bench scoring just 10 points more then the other bench is what made the difference? Just ten?

[@jameshicks4685]

@@youtubewatcher4955 Cleveland won by 2 points in that game 5 so yes I’ll say that was big part of the Win…

[@audiosurfarchive]

@@jameshicks4685 apexkek detected

[@stevenwortham9205]

That was the only game I thought he might be the next Jordan. Honest.

[@Hecuvus]

Having lived it as a NE Ohio resident and Cleveland fan for all 42 years of my life... thank you for this. My son who was born the week of the Decision and worships LeBron will one day be able to watch this and hopefully to some degree understand why his old man watching with him is in tears and bawling like a baby.

[@yurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr]

This is one of the best series' on KZbin I've ever seen, thank you for making this 👍🏾

[@freddywhite]

Incredible series, outstanding job. Thank you!

[@deranged1313]

I truly believe, LeBron and Cavs' journey to the title is the most intriguing, compelling, captivating and inspirational story in all of the sports history...

[@geordiejones5618]

I'm an all Boston fan who watched Brady and the 04 Red Sox... The 16 Cavs are the greatest sport achievement ever. What they were able to do following Lebron... What he was able to do just to give the organization a chance... We'll never see anything like this again

[@gudrunbennetrothfuss2131]

Leicester City in 2016 would like to have a word

[@theworldsmostinterestingma7592]

U.S hockey team 1980 has entered the chat.

[@kedharswaminathan7571]

2011 Dallas Mavericks: Am I a joke to you?

[@johnsalley8873]

2019 RAPTORS

[@aidanyoyos]

RIP Fred McLeod. Hearing him and AC’s call at the end felt amazing. So glad he got to see the Cavs win a championship before he passed. Also a RIP to Joe Tait who also got to see this before he died. Thank you Secret Base for a great series!

[@dusk6159]

Thank god for Lebron giving all the Cavs iconic characters and legends their due, their chances for greatness, their legendary calls' material, their winning-contending emotion and rides, the time of their life and their title (casually the hardest and best title ever too) before they could pass. Plus, Austin Carr and Lebron would've been a scary duo on the court.

[@ChangeGunz]

I have fred mcleods golf bag, RIP he was a great guy

[@Dwashin10]

This is a really great vid with a lot of rewatch value ive watched at least 3 times. Whole series deserves some type of award

[@jfridy]

I live in Kent, Ohio, near Akron, Lebron's hometown. I remember the game, we had little hope, it was just so unlikely to come back from 3-1. But we watched the game. We saw it lining up, and as the final seconds ticked down, we suddenly realized the Cavs were actually going to pull it off. We saw the clock hit zero, no penalty, so strange event that would somehow cost us the game. I live about 7 blocks from the center of Kent, where they were projecting the game on a screen for a crowd in the local concert area. We could hear the cheering from there. We watched the Cleveland crowd at the Arena party go crazy, people so overwhelmed they just ran down the streets cheering and screaming. No riots, no destruction, it was just pure joy. I worked in the outskirts of Cleveland back then. The day the trophy came back with the team, the parade was so large it effectively doubled the size of the city.

[@sensethevillen]

I wanna personally thank you guys for the time and effort you put into these. They don’t go unnoticed I promise you.

[@muhammadbarokah81]

This before Kyrie wants his own team, Love hasn’t been everyone’s fault, and Lebron has to endure his young days dejavu

[@sophiawilliams8650]

except the 2018 roster was even worse and lacked an identity and had way better competition

[@kitkat6782]

@@sophiawilliams8650 and yet LeBron still found a way to take them to the promised lands…where they got swept up and thrown out

[@sophiawilliams8650]

@@kitkat6782 yeah the end result was predictable but the journey was insane

[@nirdeep07]

@@sdfishinn lol what? LeBron left that roster and they failed to come even near to the playoffs

[@neelkumar9839]

@@sdfishinn not mj

[@LordMarcus]

This has been one hell of a Rewind.

[@sometimesitbelikedat2529]

The writing on the intro alone is on a whole another level. It wasn't pretentious, it hits you with different useful information all at once, and it holds your attention. Quality intro, my guy.

[@kennethcollio6929]

I’m not even a Cavaliers fan, but the 2016 Finals is definitely the best Finals I’ve watched in my lifetime (I’m 21). This 2016 Cavaliers team could’ve won back-to-back championships if KD didn’t join the Warriors.

[@marlon8095]

They could've won the year before that if it wasn't for Kyrie and Love going down with injuries.

[@Neglected-Nostalgia]

3 peat

[@adrianburnette7597]

KD joining the Warriors damn near ruined the NBA ......

[@volumetiga4590]

If KD didn't join GSW, Cavs Warriors rivalry will become one of the best in NBA history. Sadly after KD join GSW and Kyrie left Cavs in 18, the 18 finals felt more like GSW vs Lebron

[@chefboyare_c]

Honestly that team could have 3 peated if it weren't for injuries

[@devinflagg5010]

As a Cleveland fan, hearing that call still brings me to tears Every. Single. Time.

[@ezequielgonzalez106]

Thank u for taking the time to doing this!! I really enjoy it

[@og9575]

Right next to the Bird-Magic doc as my favorite documentary ever. Ive rewatched all three episodes countless times. Absolutely love it.

[@rowyngray2652]

I was born in 00’ in Akron and grew up watching LeBron there’s no way to describe the absolute euphoria you felt in NE Ohio that night

[@thejvguru]

It was the only time I ever shook uncontrollably while crying tears of joy. I live in Akron, and I can still remember opening my window and hearing cheers from all the nearby houses.

[@alexdelarge703]

Ohio is disgusting lol

[@YTaddiction365x]

@@alexdelarge703 Made our championship that much more beautiful

[@aarongarcia5590]

@@thejvguru crazy how y’all went from hating his guts to looking at him like Jesus Christ himself

[@thejvguru]

@@aarongarcia5590, literally never hated him. Ever.

[@ltodd1987]

Amazing how 1 man is responsible for putting Cleveland on the map, most likely would never visit like Joakim Noah but hats off to LeBron contributing so much to that cities success

[@bowsershark]

This is a fantastic video. 👏🏻 Thanks to all involved! 😊

[@_thisaintglEn]

Eh bravo 👏🏾 on this. I teared up near the end there. Fantastic wetting, editing just wow. Thank you.

[@RyRy-ev1jl]

Bro the end gave me goosebumps

[@TheRuck86]

That ending with Fred McCloud... damn. Thank you Seth.

[@wakkawakkagaming3710]

It still blows my mind that we were one pick away from Lebron being drafted to a championship ready Pistons team. Insane

[@johndebono1870]

The 2003 Pistons pick was actually top 1 protected and would've gone back to Memphis if they won the lottery. So maybe not championship ready, but a LeBron and Pau Gasol pairing would have been wild.

[@wakkawakkagaming3710]

@@johndebono1870 That's interesting, and potentially even more wild. Could've had Memphis getting their title before Cleveland, and they might've to keep Pau around and change Kobe's second run.

[@deprosport7254]

Incredible docuseries, I’m looking forward to seeing more like this

[@michaelbiscay9836]

That was cold-blooded, saying the Cavs roster was "bloated" as a picture of Shawn Kemp appeared on screen

[@ahogg5960]

Not to mention a shot of noted draft bust Darko Milicic when Seth said "compelling consolation prizes" when discussing the 2003 NBA draft...nice one there.

[@Sup-zv3tz]

"Welcome to a moment in history" should be written in every books ever !! That quote is single-handedly responsible for all the chills I've got in my life

[@archerseo]

This is one of the best sports videos i have ever seen. Incredible work! great job guys!

[@erikwennerholm4792]

What a great three part series! Thank you!

[@donkeykongsanus]

My wife walked in the room while I was watching this & asked “is this one of those conspiracy theory videos?” Not sure what to say

[@dan5974]

Uh oh. Someone's been drinking the koolaid

[@ohioboy1878]

@@dan5974 about what

[@ThatGuy-en2nn]

She probably don't like Lebron lmao.

[@sayed3520]

Hahaha

[@averageborincano9691]

Yeah, the vid kinda of has that aesthetic of a conspiracy video. Can't quite describe it, but I can tell when I see it.

[@pokecool2257]

As a Cavs fan, thank you for immortalizing the struggle to the pinnacle of our franchise's history.

[@pokecool2257]

If you want my reccomendation, give the raptors their love. They deserve it.

[@thekidfromcleveland3944]

Hey! City's history. Everyone from the 216 walks around with their heads up higher because of this night. We might not be the best now. But we were for a moment in time.......respected. noticed. Feared. That feeling stays with you for life

[@juwandbarber2124]

What an amazing 3 video series…please give us more of this…it was amazing

[@kwleung1943]

The episodes are really, really impressive! It's just so professional.

[@rogerparker4468]

'This is LeBron'...one day he will get his due. He was unreal in those early years with the Cavs.

[@enigmatic1gaming768]

Young Bron was a BEAST. Wish he stayed in that attack mode and hitting consistent jumpers. That Bucks game I remember watching it and being blown away. Looking back now, had we always got that Bron, He probably would have won more than he did and that GOAT debate his case would be undeniable.

[@presidentialkingdom2201]

@@enigmatic1gaming768 agreed. It wouldn’t be lebron at that point though lol it’d just be a taller Kobe chucking shots lol.

[@ShaunTheNavigator]

Lebron already getting his flowers 🌹. He's unquestionably the greatest of his era, and people are calling him the GOAT 🐐 over MJ. I don't know what else y'all want. 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@pac12shorts90]

Warriors fan here, I'm still mad about this choked series, but nonetheless, that was on heck of a redemption run by the Cavs after 2014, and after watching what they've been through since the beginning of their franchise, I have nothing else to say but congratulations, and that you guys deserved it.

[@samortmann5003]

Doubt the Warriors get KD if they don't blow this series, though.

[@gluserty]

@@samortmann5003 Yeah, too bad they weren't able to finish the legendary season, but I agree: no collapse, no Durant. Kevin Durant was a fail-safe for sure.

[@younggod3906]

@@gluserty facts

[@cottonmather8146]

@@janoycresnova9156 Nah. As a neutral fan who dislikes Lebron, I can say that Draymond was getting away with more fouls than should have been called. There was some bullshit on Curry at the end of game 6 when he got ejected (the game was over anyways), but other than that, the series was pretty evenly called. If Curry or Klay show up in game 7, they win convincingly.

[@L_A_H_D]

Just discovered this channel..... Tellin all my hoops homies. This is the best sports doc content I've seen. Going back and watching everything now! My fav part of discovering a new channel!