Cleveland Cavaliers Expand Free Over-the-Air Broadcasts via Gray Media and DAZN Partnership — Gray Media, Inc.

Event summary

Gray Media and the Cleveland Cavaliers have partnered with DAZN to broadcast 15 regular-season Cavaliers games for free over-the-air during the 2026-27 NBA season.
The games will air locally in Cleveland on Gray Media’s stations WOIO (CBS 19) and WUAB (MyNet 43), and statewide on Rock Entertainment Sports Network.
The 15-game package is a simulcast of the games available for free in front of the Cavaliers on DAZN’s paid subscription paywall.
Gray Media will seek additional third-party broadcasters to air the games in other parts of the territory where Gray does not own or operate television stations.

The big picture

This partnership underscores a broader trend in sports broadcasting, where teams and media companies are collaborating to enhance accessibility and reach for fans. By leveraging free over-the-air television, Gray Media and the Cleveland Cavaliers are tapping into a growing demand for cost-effective, high-quality sports content. The deal also highlights the strategic importance of local television stations in maintaining a strong connection with regional sports fans.

What we're watching

Viewership Impact: How the expansion of free over-the-air broadcasts will affect viewership numbers and engagement for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Market Expansion: Whether Gray Media can successfully secure additional third-party broadcasters to expand the reach of the Cavaliers games.
Strategic Partnerships: The pace at which similar partnerships between sports teams and media companies will emerge, driven by the success of this deal.