The Cleveland Cavaliers have announced a new multi-year television rights deal with the streaming platform DAZN for the 2026-27 NBA season. This move ends a period of uncertainty following the shutdown of their previous broadcaster and comes as the team looks to rebound from a tough end to their last campaign, having lost their final five games, including a 93-130 defeat to the New York Knicks on May 26, 2026.
What is the new Cleveland Cavaliers TV deal?
The Cavaliers revealed the partnership with DAZN this morning. It will bring all local Cleveland Cavaliers game broadcasts to the DAZN platform starting with the 2026-27 season. Game production is moving in-house through the Rock Entertainment Sports Network. This shift gives the franchise direct control over the broadcast presentation.
A major visual upgrade is planned. Fans can expect new on-screen graphics and augmented reality features designed to create a fresh viewing experience. The number of cameras used for each broadcast will jump from six to nineteen. This increase aims to provide fans at home with more dynamic angles and a closer feel for the arena action.
Why did the Cleveland Cavaliers need a new broadcast partner?
The need for a new deal stemmed from a significant industry shakeup. For 36 years, a single company held the local rights, evolving from Sports Channel Ohio to Fox Sports Ohio and finally Bally Sports Ohio. That chain ended with a shutdown last season, leaving the Cavs and twelve other NBA teams without a local broadcast agreement.
This created an immediate problem but also opened a new opportunity. Several NBA teams affected by the Bally Sports collapse launched their own broadcast channels. The Cavaliers' strategy with DAZN and their own production arm follows a similar model, aiming for greater stability and creative freedom.
How will this change the fan experience?
The most noticeable changes will be technological. The augmented reality elements and new visual overlays promise a different look during game broadcasts. The massive increase in camera coverage should make watching from home feel more immersive. It could offer unique views of player movements, defensive sets, and offensive execution.
For fans concerned about continuity, the team confirmed that popular commentators Brad Daugherty and John Michael will return. Their familiar voices will call the action on DAZN, maintaining a key connection for the fanbase. This ensures the new tech-driven broadcast won't lose its human touch.
What's next for the Cleveland Cavaliers?
The immediate focus is implementing this new broadcast infrastructure before the 2026-27 season tips off. Meanwhile, the basketball operations team has work to do on the court. The team's recent form, an 0-5 record to end last season, highlights areas needing improvement. You can track their progress and upcoming schedule on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
This DAZN deal represents a fresh start off the court. By controlling production, the Cavaliers can build a broadcast tailored specifically to their fans. It's a significant step in securing the team's local media future and enhancing how supporters follow every game, assist, and three-pointer.
