The Cleveland Cavaliers have appointed DAZN as their exclusive local broadcast partner in a multi-year agreement beginning with the 2026-27 NBA season, accelerating the franchise’s transition towards a streaming-led direct-to-consumer media strategy.
Under the agreement, DAZN has become the local streaming home for all Cavaliers regular-season games that are not subject to national broadcast arrangements, in addition to the team’s preseason schedule and a broader portfolio of Cavaliers-focused programming. The partnership represents a significant change in how the franchise distributes its local media rights as NBA teams increasingly move away from the traditional regional sports network model.
While DAZN will provide the distribution platform, the Cavaliers will retain control of their production operation through Rock Entertainment Sports Network (RESN). The franchise is also investing heavily in the viewing experience, with game production expanding from six cameras to 19.
The upgraded broadcasts will incorporate predictive artificial intelligence, augmented and mixed reality, data-driven graphics, alternative presentations and customisable multiview functionality. Cosm’s 10.5K ultra-high-resolution camera technology will also be deployed at Rocket Arena, providing enhanced visual coverage for viewers.
Nic Barlage, CEO of Rock Entertainment Group, Cleveland Cavaliers and Rocket Arena, said, “The investment we’re making in our broadcast platform creates a fan-centric destination that enriches the experience while simplifying how fans connect to Cavaliers basketball. By coupling our in-house production capabilities at RESN with DAZN’s industry-leading platform, we’re bringing our fans a broadcast built on advanced technology and engagement, resulting in a more immersive and personalised experience.”
Shay Segev, CEO of DAZN Group, added, “The United States is a key growth market for DAZN, and the Cleveland Cavaliers are exactly the kind of forward-thinking partner we want to build with as we expand our local sports offering. DAZN is becoming the platform where fans can follow the teams and competitions they care about most through a modern and digital-first viewing experience. Together with the Cavs, we’re bringing fans closer to the team while helping shape the future of direct-to-consumer sports distribution.”
The agreement further strengthens DAZN’s growing position in US regional sports. The company completed its acquisition of ViewLift this year, adding direct-to-consumer streaming, fan-engagement and monetisation capabilities to its technology offering.
DAZN has subsequently expanded its US sports portfolio, including becoming the exclusive local streaming home of the Indiana Pacers. Its partnerships with YES Network and MSG Networks have also expanded its involvement across major New York sports properties.
The Cavaliers partnership comes against a backdrop of fundamental change in NBA local media, following the disruption of the regional sports network business. For Cleveland, the strategy provides greater control over production, distribution and the fan relationship. For DAZN, the agreement adds another prominent NBA franchise to a US portfolio that is increasingly central to its global growth ambitions.
The Cavaliers will retain their established broadcast team, including John Michael, Brad Daugherty, Serena Winters and Cayleigh Griffin, ensuring continuity on air while the franchise fundamentally reshapes how its content reaches fans.