CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

Cavs, former lottery pick Mario Hezonja agree on 1-year deal

David Thorne
David Thorne
NewsHue Author
Mario Hezonja wearing a Real Madrid jersey during a professional basketball game.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed former lottery pick Mario Hezonja to a one-year, $2.8 million contract. This deal brings the 6-foot-8 forward back to the NBA after a four-year stint with Real Madrid in Spain.

Hezonja, who was the No. 5 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, played five seasons in the league for the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. Since his departure from the NBA in 2020, he established himself as a dominant presence overseas. He won the EuroLeague title in 2024 and earned ACB League MVP honors during the 2025-26 season.

The Cavaliers view Hezonja as a key wing option for their rotation. Cleveland, which reached the Eastern Conference finals, managed to secure his services despite heavy interest from the Golden State Warriors. Agent Michael Tellem of Excel Sports Management confirmed the terms of the agreement on Saturday.

This move marks a return to the league for a player looking to prove his value on a competitive roster. Hezonja holds career averages of 6.9 points and 3.1 rebounds per game from his initial time in the NBA.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Mario Hezonja's contract with the Cavaliers?+
Mario Hezonja signed a one-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
What were Mario Hezonja's recent accomplishments in Europe?+
Hezonja won the 2024 EuroLeague championship and was named the 2025-26 ACB League MVP.
Which other team expressed interest in signing Hezonja?+
The Golden State Warriors showed strong interest in signing the veteran wing before he chose the Cavaliers.
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David Thorne
David Thorne
David Thorne covers sports and health. With over a decade of experience, he brings deep insights into athletic performance and wellness.

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