Designing for the Cleveland Cavaliers: My Role in Sneakers & Spirits Night

Collaborating with the Cleveland Cavaliers was an opportunity that felt like a full-circle moment in my creative journey. As a kid, I dreamed of one day working for the Cavs, but what I never expected was that one day I’d be working with them. That dream became reality when I was brought in to design the official event banner for Sneakers & Spirits Night, an exclusive event held during Adidas Takeover Night at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.

This project wasn’t just about creating a visually striking design, it was about capturing the luxurious essence of the Cavaliers brand while elevating the event experience for attendees. From being featured on NBA.com and Cavs social channels to being showcased in televised broadcasts and throughout the arena, my work played a role in one of the team’s most exciting in-game activations of the season.

Sneakers & Spirits Night event banner for the Cleveland Cavaliers, designed in collaboration with Hennessy and Sneaker Queens Customs. Featured on NBA.com, social media, and in Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse during Adidas Takeover Night.

The official Sneakers & Spirits Night event banner, designed for the Cleveland Cavaliers in collaboration with Hennessy and Sneaker Queens Customs.

The Vision Behind the Design

Sneakers & Spirits Night, a collaboration between the Cleveland Cavaliers, Hennessy, and Sneaker Queens Customs, was designed as an exclusive experience for season ticket holders in the Oswald Courtside Club. The event blended basketball culture, sneaker artistry, and premium hospitality, giving fans the chance to meet Cavalier legends, enjoy curated food and beverages from Hennessy, and vibe to music by DJ Steph Floss.

With an event of this caliber, the visual identity needed to reflect both the Cavaliers’ legacy and the premium feel of the night. When tasked with designing the official event banner, I took inspiration from the Cavs’ bold brand identity and infused it with an elevated, sophisticated aesthetic. The result was a sleek, high-end design that resonated perfectly with the event’s energy.

Seeing my work displayed across multiple platforms including NBA.com, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ social media channels, game-day television broadcasts, and all around Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse was a surreal moment and a true honor.

A Night of Sneakers, Spirits, and Unforgettable Moments

Beyond the creative aspect, Sneakers & Spirits Night was an experience to remember. Fans not only enjoyed a premium event setting, but three lucky attendees also won custom Adidas D.O.N. 5 sneakers designed by Sneaker Queens Customs. As an added highlight, Cavs star Donovan Mitchell received his own custom designed pair, further tying the worlds of sports, sneakers, and artistry together.

The event was an undeniable success, bringing together basketball, sneaker culture, and creative branding in a way that made a lasting impression.

Exclusive custom Adidas DON Issue #5s designed by Sneaker Queens Customs for Donovan Mitchell and giveaway winners. A perfect blend of Cavs pride and artistic craftsmanship.

Bringing Creative Visions to Life

This collaboration with the Cleveland Cavaliers reinforced my passion for blending design, branding, and storytelling to create impactful visuals. Whether it’s for professional sports teams, global brands, or small businesses, I thrive on taking a brand’s essence and translating it into compelling, high-quality visuals that resonate with their audience.

If you’re looking for custom design work, branding, or creative direction that makes an impact, I’d love to bring your vision to life. Let’s collaborate and create something unforgettable!

Get in touch to discuss how I can elevate your next project.

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