Mario Hezonja is no stranger to the NBA and was Orlando Magic’s No. 5 pick of the 2015 draft, even though the Croatian international first rose to prominence at FC Barcelona. Now 31, Hezonja has signed for the Cleveland Cavaliers after spending the last four years at Real Madrid.
The new Cavs signing was officially announced only recently, with Real Madrid posting an official statement wishing Hezonja the best for his future, per a post on X by Cavs Nation. The 2023 EuroLeague champion himself posted his first message since making the move, expressing appreciation for the franchise in general.
Mario Hezonja's first message after officially joining the Cavaliers:
"I am super happy that my new chapter is with the Cavs, a team and organization that I have always admired and respected!"
A new chapter begins in Cleveland. 🍷💛 pic.twitter.com/lefdl45V2h
— Cavs Nation (@CavsNationCP) July 31, 2026
“Never liked how I left the NBA but these past 5 years have been exactly what I wanted and much needed!. I am super happy that my new chapter is with the Cleveland Cavaliers, a team and organization that I have always admired and respected!” Hezonja wrote on X.
The former Orlando Magic star may have been a lottery pick, but he could not live up to the reputation he had initially earned due to his heroics at Barcelona, where he broke out in the 2014-15 season as a teenager. The transition did not prove straightforward as he failed to establish himself as a starter in Orlando.
He spent three seasons at the Magic, averaging 6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. After the three-year deal ran out and Orlando did not pick up the team option, Hezonja signed for the Knicks on a one-year deal, which was followed by another stint at the Portland Trail Blazers.
Of course, things have changed since then, and Hezonja has continued to perform at a high level overseas. The Croatian averaged 13.3 points, four assists and 2.4 rebounds while shooting at over 42% from the field for Real Madrid last season. Hezonja has once again signed a one-year deal worth $2.8 million.
The Cavs will be well aware that they are not adding a starter, and will instead rely on Hezonja to provide depth and a scoring punch off the bench. That was precisely the role he had developed into during his first stint in the NBA as well, although as Hezonja pointed out, he wants to have a more successful time in the big league with the Cavs.