The Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA Finals and in doing so delivered Cleveland its first major sports title in 52 years. They also made history as the only team ever to have trailed three games to one in the series and come back to win.

Having reached the playoffs 20 times in team’s 46-year history, this year they finally sealed victory, defeating the Golden State Warriors, 93-89, in Game 7. In his post-game interview, LeBron James dedicated the trophy and his Finals MVP award to his city. So too did Nike, immediately releasing a moving and triumphant tribute to Cleveland and the city’s dedicated sports fans.

Directed by The Malloys, the heartfelt spot beautifully celebrates Cleveland’s long-awaited championship; saluting the loyalty and grit of the fans who always knew this day would come – they just didn’t know when.

AdWeek awarded the spot Ad of the Day saying, “’Worth the Wait’ shows fans from around city—as well as the team’s top players, including LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love and J.R. Smith—celebrating their long-awaited triumph.” Adding, “it feels like the perfect tribute to Cleveland—the team and its fans.” AdWeek’s AgencySpy went further saying, “The pacing and production of ‘Worth the Wait’ are spot on … the execution fires on all cylinders.”

Creativity gave ‘Worth the Wait’ their Editor’s Pick. “In Nike’s touching tribute to the Cleveland Cavaliers, following their victory in last night’s NBA Finals, the team’s fans are so shocked they really don’t know how to react. After 52 years, they watch in disbelief, joy and wonder as their team beats the Golden State Warriors,” they wrote.

This is not the first time The Malloys have encapsulated the nail-biting scenes before a moment of triumph. The duo’s This Is Why We Play campaign for Nike was another stunning close-up examination of the suspense, fist-pumping excitement, and sheer euphoria fans feel watching the game.