On Sunday, June 19, 2016, the Cleveland Cavaliers made history by winning the NBA Championship against the Golden State Warriors. I know, you may be thinking, “Not this again! We know you guys won. What’s the big deal?”

The answer is quite simple: Everything.

OK, I’m not a sports fan at all. I did “play” basketball in the seventh grade, but only because I’m 5’10”. I can’t tell the difference between a field goal and a touchdown (OK, I’m exaggerating a bit, but you get the idea). The point is, Cleveland was brought together by something that was so uplifting that it’s hard not to smile and celebrate.

Cleveland is an underdog city. We’ve been the laughing stalk of the U.S. for quite some time, especially when LeBron James left in 2010. A lot of good businesses have left. Many stores and restaurants have shut down and the crime rate has skyrocketed. As I grew up here, I’ve only heard other natives say bad things, such as “There isn’t anything in Cleveland!” or “I can’t wait to move away from here.” And looking around, I couldn’t help but feel the same way. It seemed as though this city was absolutely going nowhere.

Then as I became older, things began to shift. New restaurants started popping up. I actually discovered the magic that is Coventry. (Pacific East and Tommy’s, anyone?) Downtown Cleveland began to rebuild. More awesome programs and businesses sprang up. I began to see change. And I was, and still am, grateful for that.

So fast forward to that amazing Sunday night. When the final scores were announced, I couldn’t believe it. My city, the one that has had its many downs, has finally won a championship after 52 years of “the curse.” My city that natives and visitors alike have called a dump is prospering. We’re finally rebuilding, and that’s exciting. I believe that soon Cleveland, Ohio will be the place that people run to. I am proud to call this miraculous place my home.