Cleveland, OH – To honor the legacy of Nick Gilbert, the Cleveland Cavaliers will designate their March 3rd game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse against the New York Knicks at 7 p.m. as Cavs Bow Tie Night, presented by The Gilly Project. In its second year, this season's Bow Tie Night holds special significance because Nick, son of Chairman Dan Gilbert and wife Jennifer Gilbert, passed away in May 2023 from complications related to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). NF is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerve pathways anywhere in the body, which can lead to blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, disabling pain and cancer. NF1 is the most common form of NF, occurring in roughly 1 in every 2,500 births. It affects all populations equally, and there is no present cure.
Throughout his 26 years of life, Nick embodied eternal optimism, hope and a heart of service. He, along with his family, dedicated his life to raising awareness and supporting families impacted by NF as well as funding research to cure the disease. This unique evening will honor Nick's contributions to the Cavs organization, with all proceeds going to support NF research. The Gilly Project is a collaborative community inspired by Nick's life. The organization is focused on inspiring the next generation of NF fighters and raising money for NF Forward. NF Forward is a non-profit established by Dan and Jennifer Gilbert in 2017 with the goal of eradicating NF by funding groundbreaking, cutting-edge NF research, raising awareness about NF and engaging the general population in supporting efforts that will lead to a cure.
Last year, the Cavs dedicated the 2022-2023 season to raising awareness and funds for NF research. The team also unveiled their emblematic wine and gold bow tie, which has become a perennial team symbol celebrating the millions of people worldwide affected by NF. The symbol appeared on player warm-up jackets, as well as the lapels of broadcasters, Cavs coaches and front office members. It was also uniquely integrated into the Cavs player introductions and featured on in-venue assets inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. It remains an important part of the fabric of the organization today.
This year, the Cavs will partner with The Gilly Project to bring the Night to life across the team's digital and in-arena platforms throughout the game. The team will also host a halftime show to unveil a permanent banner in the FieldHouse rafters that will serve as an enduring reminder of Nick's unquenchable spirit. To celebrate Nick's love of everything cheese, a concession stand will be rebranded "Gilly's" and will serve Nick's favorite, Mac & Cheese. All fans in attendance will be given a Cavs Bow Tie Night Rally towel. Fans are also encouraged to wear their own bow ties for the evening.
Other activation elements will include team "What's Not to Like?" shooting shirts that will also be sold at Center Court, with all proceeds going to NF Forward, as well as memorable content woven throughout the game presentation, Cavs social media, the Humongotron and the evening's TV broadcasts on ESPN and Bally Sports Ohio. Also, proceeds from the evening's 50/50 raffle will be matched by the Gilbert Family Foundation and will be donated to NF Forward.