Mario Hezonja is officially returning to the NBA after six seasons in Europe, agreeing to a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Michael Tellem of Excel Sports Management told ESPN.
The former No. 5 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft will get another opportunity to establish himself in the league after last playing during the 2019-20 season.
Hezonja is expected to provide Cleveland with depth and versatility on the wing as the Cavaliers look to build on last season’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
The 31-year-old attracted significant NBA interest following another strong campaign in Europe, with both the Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors pursuing his services.
In the end, Cleveland secured the deal, bringing the Croatian forward back to the NBA for his sixth season.
Hezonja — the No. 5 pick in the 2015 draft — receives an opportunity to revitalize his NBA career entering his 6th season in the league after last playing in 2019-20, and is set to play a key wing role for the Eastern conference finalists. Hezonja received strong interest to… https://t.co/XRfrmR5h7d
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 26, 2026
