On what some describe as the biggest night in Cleveland sports history, Kenda Tire’s Jimmy Yang served as honorary captain on the court last night as the Cleveland Cavaliers opened their season against the New York Knicks. Before tip off, the entire Cleveland Cavaliers organization accepted their rings, raised the banner and were honored as NBA Champions, the first major sports title for the city since 1964.

At the same time, Game 1 of the World Series was ready to start next door (Cleveland Indians vs. the Chicago Cubs). The tire industry was very much a part of both occasions – Kenda as opening night sponsor of the Cavs, Falken as the official tire brand of Major League Baseball, and the Goodyear blimp flying over both venues, providing aerial footage for television coverage.

Kenda Tire began its partnership as a Cavaliers’ sponsor in 2013, well before the triumphant return of LeBron James to the team. Their initial investment paid off with increase brand exposure and an opportunity to share the celebration with a handful of Kenda dealers, suppliers, employees and their families last night.