Cavs Reward Nae’Qwan Tomlin with Two-Year Deal After Breakout Season
The Cleveland Cavaliers are locking in one of this season’s most unexpected success stories. Forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin, who’s gone from undrafted longshot to key rotation piece, has signed a new two-year, $3 million guaranteed contract with the Cavs.
For a guy who didn’t hear his name called in the 2024 NBA Draft, Tomlin’s journey has been anything but conventional - and that’s exactly what makes it so impressive.
The 26-year-old first joined Cleveland on a 10-day contract last February. At the time, it looked like a typical short-term flyer.
But Tomlin made the most of every minute. Just a month later, the Cavs converted his deal into a two-way contract, giving him a foothold in the organization.
Fast forward to now, and he’s earned a full-time spot - and a well-deserved payday.
This season, Tomlin is averaging 17 minutes per game, contributing 6 points and 3 rebounds a night. Those numbers might not jump off the page, but they don’t tell the full story.
His energy off the bench has been a real spark for Cleveland. Whether it’s crashing the glass, defending multiple positions, or throwing down highlight-reel dunks - like the windmill he uncorked in a recent blowout win at home - Tomlin has brought a jolt of athleticism and effort every time he steps on the floor.
He’s the kind of player every contending team needs: a grinder who doesn’t need the ball to make an impact, and who plays with something to prove. And now, the Cavs are showing they believe in his long-term value.
Tomlin’s deal isn’t just a reward for past performance - it’s a sign that Cleveland sees him as part of their future. For a team that’s building around a young core and looking to stay competitive in the East, locking in a versatile, high-motor forward on a team-friendly deal is a smart move.
From 10-day contract to guaranteed money in less than a year - Tomlin’s rise is a reminder that in the NBA, opportunity meets preparation. And when it does, stories like this happen.