Mario Hezonja, a 31-year-old Croatian basketball player standing 2.06 meters tall, has returned to the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers after several successful years in the Euroleague. The Cavaliers, who are aiming to win the championship, signed Hezonja, who previously played in the NBA but has since become one of the top attackers in European basketball. Hezonja's return marks a new chapter in his career, as he now joins a team with high ambitions.
Hezonja participated in the Cleveland Cavaliers Media Day and spoke on various topics during a press conference. Reflecting on his past years in Europe, he stated that he had several opportunities to return to the NBA but chose to go back home after the season in the "bubble" — a term used for the isolated environment in which the NBA played during the pandemic. He expressed gratitude for returning, noting that joining the NBA at a young age without accomplishing much troubled him slightly. He mentioned having played for clubs that supported him in pursuing his goals and ambitions.
On his progress since his first stint in the NBA, Hezonja emphasized his American mindset regarding summer work and his dedication to improving his game. He noted that he applied this approach during his seasons in Europe, which was crucial as he evolved in teams that built their projects around him. He stated that his life revolves around basketball, which has greatly helped him progress.
Hezonja mentioned that he was drafted when he was 1.98 meters tall and 86 kg, and he felt like a child during the Summer League — a pre-season tournament for NBA prospects. He now returns at 2.06 meters and 118 kg, providing the team with additional versatility. He discussed this with his teammates, emphasizing the value of having players who can do many things on the court. He noted that basketball now relies on this type of profile, not only in the NBA.
Regarding his association with the team's stars, Hezonja mentioned that he had never played alongside players of this caliber before. He discussed with Donovan Mitchell, who told him something like: "If you find yourself in isolation here..." He responded: "Don, if I have to play isolations, you will have to pay for it out of your own pocket." Hezonja emphasized that he is there to help the team and serve his teammates, including Donovan Mitchell. He noted that he has a lot of experience and has practically experienced everything during his career. This is now the second time he is embarking on this adventure, and he is here to integrate and help everyone.
On what the Cavaliers have gained by signing him, Hezonja stated that he is a player who works extremely hard and gives 200% at every game. He emphasized that there is never a night without effort and that he is very versatile and capable of doing everything on the court with confidence, determination, and a huge desire to succeed. He mentioned that he has nothing to prove and just needs to give everything to the team, coach, and teammates to return what they have invested in him.
Mario Hezonja Returns to NBA with Cleveland Cavaliers
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
nbacleveland-cavaliersmario-hezonjabasketballeuroleague



