CLEVELAND (AP) — Forward Mario Hezonja is returning to the NBA for the first time in six years after signing a one-year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The 31-year-old Croatian spent the past four seasons with Real Madrid, where he was named the Spanish League MVP after averaging 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists in the 2025-26 campaign. His performances helped Real Madrid remain among the continent's elite in the EuroLeague.
Hezonja was the fifth overall pick by Orlando in the 2015 NBA draft and played five NBA seasons with the Magic, New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 6.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.3 assists. After leaving the league, he also suited up for Panathinaikos in Greece and Russia's UNICS Kazan before establishing himself at Real Madrid.
The Cavaliers, who reached the Eastern Conference finals last season for the first time since 2018, were looking to bolster their frontcourt depth after losing Dean Wade and Keon Ellis in free agency. Hezonja's versatility — he can play both forward spots — gives Cleveland another experienced option off the bench as it looks to build on last season's deep playoff run.
Standing 6ft 8in (2.03m), Hezonja brings size, shooting touch and international pedigree to a roster built around a young core. His time in Madrid culminated in a run to the EuroLeague final in May, when Real Madrid faced Olympiacos in Athens.
The one-year deal gives Hezonja a chance to re-establish himself in the NBA at 31, while Cleveland adds a proven scorer and rebounder without long-term commitment. With training camp approaching, the Croatian will compete for minutes in a crowded but talented forward rotation.
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