From Cleveland Cavaliers On SI · · 1m 40s
Cavs Fans Get 15 Free Games This Season
The Cavaliers left regional TV for DAZN, and 15 games will still air free over the air in Ohio.
In brief
The Cavaliers left regional TV for DAZN, and 15 games will still air free over the air in Ohio. Fifteen Cavs games air free on local Gray Media stations starting October 26, but the other 50-plus sit behind a DAZN paywall or on national TV. Originally reported by Cleveland Cavaliers On SI.
DAZN takes the Cavs
Cleveland handed exclusive broadcast rights to DAZN for the foreseeable future, with a promise that some games would stay free for fans.
End of a 36-year run
The Cavs spent 36 years on a regional network that cycled through names and shut down last season as FanDuel Sports Network Ohio.
Broadcasts move in house
Rock Entertainment Group now produces the games itself, bringing new camera angles, fresh graphics and other game day changes.
Fifteen games, no charge
Starting October 26 against Minnesota, 15 games air free on WOIO, WUAB and Gray Media channels across Ohio, or on Rock Entertainment Sports Network.
Pregame and postgame included
The free broadcasts carry the full wraparound shows with Austin Carr. The schedule is subject to change.
The paywall complaint
Fans pushed back on DAZN's pricing. The free slate softens it but does not replace it, since 50-plus games still need a subscription or national TV.
What it costs
Standard is $19.99 monthly or $119.99 for the season. Ultimate runs $24.99 or $139.99 and adds alternate angles plus a Cavs store discount.
Cleveland follows the pack
The Pelicans, Mavericks, Suns and Jazz already went in house with direct to consumer paywalls. Season and half season ticket holders get a free season pass.
“This partnership represents a forward thinking approach to serving local sports fans.”
What it means
Fifteen Cavs games air free on local Gray Media stations starting October 26, but the other 50-plus sit behind a DAZN paywall or on national TV.
