Hezonja begins his NBA return in familiar surroundings
Mario Hezonja began training camp with the Cleveland Cavaliers in Spain this week, returning to familiar surroundings as he prepares for another spell in the NBA. The Croatian forward spoke to reporters on September 30, 2026, after Cleveland trained at The Embassy in Fuengirola, Málaga.
Hezonja joined the Cavaliers after leaving Real Madrid and said he wants to use his experience to help his new team win. EFE reported that he remained deeply attached to Madrid, particularly the staff who had supported him and his family.
He also explained that a coaching change at the Spanish club had not driven his decision to leave. Hezonja said he had been close to extending his Madrid contract and removing the NBA exit clause before choosing the opportunity in Cleveland.
For the Cavaliers, the Spanish camp provides time to integrate new teammates before the season. Coach Kenny Atkinson told AS that building connections within the group was an early priority, with the shared trip offering opportunities to spend time together away from the court.
Donovan Mitchell and James Harden also spoke positively about Hezonja’s work in practice. Cleveland’s camp is the start of that integration, with the forward’s eventual role still to be established as the team moves through preseason preparation.