The Cavaliers are opening up a slice of their new broadcast package to local fans, with 15 games set to air free over the air beginning October 26.
That window is part of Cleveland’s new partnership with DAZN, which earlier this month was announced as the exclusive home for Cavs games going forward. The team’s broadcasts, after 36 years with what eventually became FanDuel Sports Network Ohio and shut down last season, now shift to DAZN’s platform.
The change also brings a new production setup. Cleveland’s games will be handled by an in-house crew from Rock Entertainment Group, with the promise of new camera angles, graphics and other game-day changes.
For fans, the most notable piece is access. The 15 free games will be available on local Gray Media stations or on Rock Entertainment Sports Network, including WOIO and WUAB in Cleveland and other Gray Media outlets across Ohio. Those broadcasts are subject to change, but they will also include pregame and postgame coverage with Austin Carr.
The move comes after some complaints about DAZN’s pricing for Cavaliers streaming access, especially with more than 50 games still either behind the paywall or airing on national TV. The free over-the-air games add a little relief, but they also underline how much of the season remains tied to the subscription model.
At the end of last season, there was real uncertainty around how NBA teams would land new rights deals as more clubs moved toward in-house broadcasts. Cleveland is following a path already taken by teams like the Pelicans, Mavericks, Suns, and Jazz, all of whom shifted to in-house production and direct-to-consumer distribution.
Matt Moran, the Senior Operating Official at Gray Media, called the deal “This partnership represents a forward thinking approach to serving local sports fans.”
For fans buying into DAZN, there are multiple subscription options available. Season and half season ticket holders will also receive access through a free season pass subscription.
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