Cavaliers Honor Nick Gilbert on Third Annual Bow Tie Night

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Cleveland Cavaliers will hold their third annual Bow Tie Night on Sunday, March 2, to honor the legacy of Nick Gilbert, who passed away in May 2023 from complications related to neurofibromatosis type 1.

Fans will receive a commemorative Nick Gilbert bobblehead, which captures a moment from the 2011 NBA Draft, where Gilbert was seen in his trademark bow tie celebrating alongside his father, Cavaliers Chairman Dan Gilbert. The game, set for 3:30 p.m. at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, sees the Cavaliers face off against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Nick Gilbert, 26, was an advocate for neurofibromatosis awareness and was pivotal in the establishment of NF Forward, a non-profit dedicated to funding research on the condition. The evening will recognize those impacted by neurofibromatosis, and apparel sales, including t-shirts, hoodies, and merchandise, will support NF Forward.

“Bow Tie Night is a day for everyone affected by neurofibromatosis, and we want to encourage everyone to wear bow ties in unity and hope,” said Cavaliers representative Jenna McCabe. “This night is a celebration of Nick’s spirit and his unwavering impact on the community.”

During the game, the Cavaliers will again sport their special bow tie warm-ups, and a life-size bobblehead of Nick Gilbert will be displayed in Loudville. Last year, the franchise unveiled a permanent banner in the arena rafters featuring the wine and gold bow tie to honor Nick.

Additionally, the Gilly Project, inspired by Nick’s legacy, is set to open Gilly’s, a sports bar at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, aiming to create a unique dining experience that embodies the spirit of collaboration and community that Nick cherished.

50-50 raffle proceeds from Bow Tie Night will also benefit NF Forward. Fans will participate in various events, including an in-game t-shirt toss featuring “What’s Not to Like?” shirts.

“The Cavaliers have not only committed to honoring my son’s legacy but also educating the public about neurofibromatosis,” said Dan Gilbert. “We look forward to a night that celebrates Nick and brings attention to a cause that is very close to our hearts.”