The Cleveland Cavaliers have announced an exclusive multi-year local broadcast partnership with DAZN, beginning with the 2026-27 NBA season. This major shift moves all Cavaliers games not on national TV to the global sports streaming platform, aiming to deliver a more immersive and personalized fan experience. The team looks to turn the page after a tough end to the 2025-26 campaign, which concluded with a 93-130 loss to the New York Knicks on May 26, 2026, and a five-game losing streak.
What does the new DAZN deal include?
Starting with the 2026-27 season, DAZN becomes the new direct-to-fan home for Cavaliers basketball. It will stream all regular season games not exclusively selected for national broadcast, plus preseason contests and team-produced original programming. Fans can access everything across smart TVs, mobile devices, web browsers, game consoles, and partner streaming platforms.
The Cavaliers are moving game production in-house through their Emmy Award-winning Rock Entertainment Sports Network (RESN). This next-generation broadcast will use predictive AI, data-driven visual overlays, and mixed-reality elements. Production expands from 6 to 19 cameras, including ultra-high resolution 10.5K systems for new angles. Fans can customize their view with alternative broadcasts or build a multi-view setup in the app.
The familiar broadcast team of play-by-play announcer John Michael, analyst Brad Daugherty, reporter Serena Winters, and host Cayleigh Griffin will remain. All full-season and half-season Cavs United and Foundation Members get a complimentary subscription. General fans can choose a Monthly Pass for $19.99 or a Monthly Pass Ultimate for $24.99 with extra features.
Why is this important for Cavaliers fans?
This partnership fundamentally changes how fans in the local market will watch games. Nic Barlage, CEO of Rock Entertainment Group and the Cavaliers, said the investment creates a fan-centric destination that simplifies connection to the team. He emphasized coupling RESN's production with DAZN's platform for a more immersive experience built on advanced technology.
Shay Segev, CEO of DAZN Group, called the United States a key growth market. He stated that DAZN is becoming the platform where fans follow their favorite teams through a modern, digital-first experience. The deal is part of a larger trend in sports media towards direct-to-consumer distribution, giving teams more control over their content and fan relationships.
For a team looking to rebound, providing easy, high-quality access is key. Fans can stay updated on the team's progress and upcoming matchups by checking the official [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
What comes next for the Cavaliers organization?
The immediate focus is preparing for the inaugural season on DAZN in 2026-27. This involves a significant technical and production ramp-up for RESN to deliver the promised enhanced broadcasts. The organization must also effectively communicate the new viewing options to its fanbase to ensure a smooth transition.
On the court, the team aims to build a competitive roster that can improve upon last season's finish. Integrating this new media partnership with on-court performance will be a major storyline. The deal represents a long-term commitment to innovation, both in how the game is presented and how the franchise engages with its supporters in Ohio and beyond.
