Admit it. We have all at one time or another been tricked by a Twitter account that looks all too similar to an NBA insider. The account has the same photo as Woj, references sources, or breaking news. One problem… It’s not actually Woj, Shams, Adam Schefter, or the other news breakers. The shock/anger/excitement is too much to bear, and we run with it and share it on Twitter or group chats only to have it debunked by our friends that do their due diligence in verifying the source. This week, I thought I was duped upon news of the Cleveland Cavaliers bringing back Anderson Varejao for the remainder of the season. Today, the Cavs made it official in a press release announcing the 10-day contract with Varejao.
While the move is one of the most surprising mid-season signings, the veteran does have a history in the Cavs organization. Varejao spent 12 seasons in Cleveland, including time as a key member of Cleveland’s back-to-back 60-win teams (66-16 in 2008-09 and 61-21 in 2009-10). The center quickly became a favorite on the LeBron-led Cavalier teams. Anderson earned the nickname of ‘Wild Thing’ for his high-intensity and energetic style of play. Fans loved his play that headbands with wigs to match his hairstyle could be seen throughout Cleveland’s arena.
The Wigs
Cleveland was able to sign Anderson Varejao after they were granted a hardship exception by the NBA. According to NBA rules, teams can apply for the hardship exception if they have four players who have missed at least three games due to illness or injury and will continue to be out at least two weeks.
Of the move Cavs GM Koby Altman said:
“Andy embodies all that the city of Cleveland stands for and beyond, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring his experience, leadership and character back into this locker room,” said Cav’s GM Koby Altman. “His infectious work ethic and commitment to our community have earned him his rightful place in the fabric of this organization and all of Northeast Ohio, and have established a genuine admiration that resonates strongly throughout our passionate fan base. There are not many athletes who can impact the game of basketball the way Andy has over his career, and I feel that our players will benefit greatly from their daily interaction with him. We are thrilled to welcome Andy and family back to the Cavaliers.”
The Brazilian center remains among the franchise’s all-time leaders in offensive rebounds (fourth, 1,479), defensive rebounds (seventh, 2,955), total rebounds (sixth, 4,434), games played (eighth, 591), blocks (tied-eighth, 397) and steals (eighth, 529). He earned a spot onto the NBA’s All-Defensive Second Team in 2009-10.
On what the opportunity to return to the Cavalier organization means to him Varejao said:
“For more than a decade, I was blessed to wear the Wine & Gold and play for the organization’s incredible fans, who inspired me to give everything I had during each and every play on a nightly basis,” said Varejão. “I am so excited to return to Cleveland and be back in a Cavaliers jersey, continuing to build memories and representing the city and franchise that I love so much. I am so very grateful to Dan Gilbert and Koby Altman for this opportunity and am extremely thankful for the love and support from my wife, Stacy, and daughter, Serenee. I can’t wait to join my teammates and be reunited with the fans, both on and off the court.”
Anderson Varejao
Anderson Varejao last appeared in an NBA game in 2017 for the Golden State Warriors. Likewise, the last time he has appeared in a basketball game was in 2019 for the 2019 World Cup in China. After spending his first 12 seasons in Cleveland the center was traded to the Warriors. Once on the Warriors, Varejao spent much of his time on the bench. Anderson watched as his former team the Cavaliers won the NBA Championship while facing his new team the Warriors in one of the greatest NBA Finals in league history.
While Varejao still got a championship ring for being part of that team at the beginning of the season, it never felt right. The Cavs signing Anderson Varejao allows their fans to celebrate this important member of their franchise history. One last time to put on their “Wild Thing” wigs and cheer for the 6’10” lovable center.
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