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Melvin Thomas

@focus3d

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1854

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"Empowering athletes to become future leaders on and off the court"

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Where I’m from, basketball was everything. Growing up, watching every Cleveland Cavaliers game at home and then hitting the driveway to practice at halftime was how I spent game days in Toledo, Ohio. I’d wake my mom up at night because LeBron hit a buzzer-beater against the Orlando Magic. No one could be mad—we had just watched Ohio get one step closer to a ring. It just wouldn’t come until 2016.

I grew up rocking the Irish across my chest. Not St. Vincent St. Mary’s, but that’s how I felt at St. Patrick’s and Toledo Central Catholic. I had the posters, the graphic tees. Eventually, my Cleveland apartment opened up to basketball art because this is where I was meant to be. I decided to do everything I could to cover the league after high school.

Sitting in New York now, this is still the game I look forward to every year—LeBron against the Cavs. Not because it decides anything, but because it means something deeper for so many Ohioans. I’m endlessly appreciative of the James gang for the trust and opportunities that allowed me to be around some of the biggest moments.

My friend @focus3d would’ve loved to see me do this year after year, but where I’m from, there are things outside of basketball that took him from the basketball community far too soon. He loved seeing these photographed moments. Where I’m from, everyone always made sure I was good. Everyone always made sure I felt the love & support.

I’m not covering the game this year, but I’m in a position now where I can truly enjoy it from afar—and for that, I’m thankful. Thankful for the opportunities to work with Bleacher Report Hoops, Overtime, SLAM, and of course ESPN throughout the years.

Cavs x Lakers, throughout the years for @espncleveland and @espnlosangeles | Wednesday 1.28 matchup on ESPN 📺

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OJ year just know everyone is faded this chapter 32. Blessed to see another bday 🤞🏾❤️ #

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unretired #foreverfocus3d

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Happy Birthday Melvin! We love you and miss you…FOREVER FOCUS3D 🤍🕊️

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best way to end this journey, thank you aau❤️

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It ain’t right to do it light, I’m too heavy ‘round this b!tch🤧

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💎Miss Bro @focus3d 💎It Hit Different 🥀You Ain’t Here Nomo 💯 #JusticeForMel #StayingFocus3d 👌🏾

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To all my fans and followers that wanted to see me play this year I apologize.. I wish I could’ve played this season but unfortunately I was unable to play due to injuries. I will be back next season stronger and better. Everything happens for a reason and they all blessings!! Thank God for everything #TheHope ❤️ #focused #RipMelmax #Rip55

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Thank you to Joel for this wonderful piece on Kendall. We are so proud of her. Kendall had this obvious love for basketball at a very early age and she had Melvin Thomas to not only train her from 2017 until 2022 but he enhanced her basketball IQ and attention to details. They shared this unbreakable bond & love of the game. He was more than just a trainer, and he is missed so much. Truly special. ❤️
(full videos are on bcsn, Kendall Braden top recruit)

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So proud of my girl!!! Braden I’m so happy for you and your family! The vibe in the room was everything! Keep shining bright!

Mel I felt you in that gym yesterday bro! Miss you!❤️💎#ForeverFocused

T-O-L
E-D-O
#LadyRockets 🚀💙💛

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Address me by my pronouns cause I’m really HIM… #Certified 😎

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Committed to the home team 🚀 @melvin_thomas23 would be proud. Proud of everything you’ve done, everything you continue to do, and everything you have yet to accomplish.

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