Tomlin was previously playing on a two-way contract before he signed his new NBA contract, reported to be $3 million for 2 years.
CLEVELAND — In a move that was reported in the works in the weeks leading up to the NBA’s trade deadline, the Cleveland Cavaliers have converted forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s two-way contract into a standard NBA contract, the team announced Wednesday.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the new deal is for two years, $3 million and fully guaranteed.
Tomlin originally signed with the Cavaliers on Feb. 20, 2025 to a 10-day contract. Relegated to a largely reserve role for much of last season and into the early part of this season, Tomlin carved out a valuable role in Kenny Atkinson’s rotation with his energetic and gritty playstyle.
“Nae’Qwan Tomlin’s basketball journey has been remarkable, and no one is more deserving of this opportunity,” said Altman. “Rising from not playing high school basketball to logging meaningful NBA minutes is a testament to his work ethic. He has earned the conversion of his two-way contract, which speaks directly to the impact he has made on the team with his all-out hustle and resilience.”
Tomlin has appeared in 43 games for the Cavaliers this year averaging 17.1 minutes per game as the team has navigated nagging injuries to Evan Mobley and ineffective play from De’Andre Hunter. He is averaging 6.5 ppg, 3.1 rebounds and just under a block per game.