This Day In Cavs History: The Humongotron Is Born

INTRO: Throughout the 2023-24 NBA season, Spencer Davies is going to turn back the clock to milestone moments and important dates in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ past with “This Day In Cavs History.” Whether they’ve been good, bad or sad, these events were significant in the franchise’s 53-year existence.

Then known as Quicken Loans Arena (now Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse), the Cleveland Cavaliers’ home court desperately needed a scoreboard upgrade to accompany the new energy LeBron James’ return was bringing back to the city in the summer of 2014.

Just like that, The Humongotron was born.

Nine years ago on Oct. 27, the Cavs unveiled their state-of-the-art scoreboard with pyrotechnic flame-spitting swords and brand new audio and visual systems all around the building. At the time, it was the largest scoreboard in the NBA.

From the original press release nine years ago:

GIANT-SIZED. The four-sided, center-hung scoreboard has four enormous HD video screens that are tilted and uniquely curved to provide optimal viewing angles for all fans whether they are seated in the front row on the floor, or in the upper level in Loudville. The two sideline screens measure 31.50’ high x 56.69’ wide and feature greater-than-HD video. The two high-resolution baseline screens measure 29.92’ high x 33.07’ wide.

BRILLIANT. In addition to the new scoreboard, The Q will be illuminated with a grand total of more than 11,682 square feet of new LED displays that have been installed in the arena’s seating bowl and concourses. This included updating the four corner boards and 360-degree fascia ribbon in the seating area and replacing traditional backlit signage on the concourses with high resolution LED technology. The new technology will be synchronized through ANC’s vSOFT™ operating system to create an immersive experience for fans.

Fans first got to experience The Humongotron on Oct. 30, 2014 when the Cavs hosted the New York Knicks in LeBron’s first game as a Cavalier since May 2010. It was also the debut of Kevin Love in wine and gold alongside fellow Big Three member Kyrie Irving. Unfortunately, Carmelo Anthony and Co. spoiled the night with a 95-90 victory.

Though it may not be the biggest in the league anymore, the Humongotron has stood the test of time and is a staple to the FieldHouse with a crystal clear picture and fantastic visuals to complement the action on the court.

Technology sure is something, isn’t it?