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League: WNBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Trades

Cavs sign Mario Hezonja to one-year deal after past NBA comments

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 3:00 AM

Last updated Jul 27, 2026

Cavs sign Mario Hezonja to one-year deal after past NBA comments
Summary

Mario Hezonja has signed a one-year, $2.8 million deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This move comes after an extended absence from the NBA, having last played in the 2019-20 season before being waived in November 2020. Hezonja previously stated he would not return to the NBA, citing a lack of respect and the league being more about showcase than competition. His signing follows interest from the Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors after he exercised an NBA opt-out clause and paid an $850,000 buyout fee. Hezonja now appears ready to accept a reduced role, having previously struggled to adapt during his time in the league.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Hezonja last played in the NBA in 2019-20.
  • •He signed a one-year deal with the Cavaliers.
  • •He expressed concerns about respect in the NBA.
  • •He had a standout season shooting 38.4% on 3-pointers with Real Madrid.
  • •Cavs showed interest alongside Golden State before signing.
Latest Updates
  • 3:00 AMYahoo Sports — “I’m Not Going to Return”: $2.8 Million LeBron James Backup’s Past NBA Comments Resurface After Cavs Signing
What they're saying
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The Cleveland Cavaliers were waiting for a LeBron James reunion who eventually signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. The Cavs even had James Harden decline his player option and avoided any move for Jonathan Kuminga.

Related Teams & Leagues
Cleveland CavaliersNew York KnicksWNBABasketball

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