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Cavaliers Reach $2.8 M Deal with Hezonja, Awaiting Release

7/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Cleveland Cavaliers have a one-year, $2.8 million deal with Mario Hezonja, though the contract remains unofficial because Real Madrid delayed his release after the Cavs confirmed a roster spot on July 26, while his NBA-out clause expires on July 20.
Agent Michael Tellem said Hezonja accepted the offer and that the Cavs remain in signing negotiations, per Marc Stein.
Hezonja averaged 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists last season.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 the Dallas Mavericks drafted German forward Dirk Nowitzki ninth overall and traded him from Milwaukee, ending an 11-year playoff drought; the lockout-shortened season saw the team win only 19 games. His success sparked an NBA shift toward European players, exemplified by the 2000-01 addition of China’s Wang Zhizhi, making international scouting a league-wide priority.

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Story summary

The Cleveland Cavaliers have a one-year, $2.8 million deal with Mario Hezonja, though the contract remains unofficial because Real Madrid delayed his release after the Cavs confirmed a roster spot on July 26, while his NBA-out clause expires on July 20.
Agent Michael Tellem said Hezonja accepted the offer and that the Cavs remain in signing negotiations, per Marc Stein.
Hezonja averaged 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists last season.

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