Real Madrid Blocks Mario Hezonja From Joining Another EuroLeague Team Without Consent

Mario Hezonja remains a central figure in Spanish basketball this summer amid ongoing contract disputes with Real Madrid. The Croatian forward announced his intention to activate a $1 million buyout clause to leave Real Madrid and join the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. However, Real Madrid claims the payment has not yet been made, meaning Hezonja is technically still under contract with the Spanish club despite agreeing terms with Cleveland.

The official announcement of Hezonja signing with the Cavaliers has been delayed due to unresolved issues with Real Madrid. Reports suggest a possible scenario where Hezonja might be signed and then released by Cleveland before the NBA season starts, allowing him to return to Europe and sign with any EuroLeague team. Potential suitors include Hapoel Tel Aviv, Dubai, and Panathinaikos.

According to Marca, Real Madrid intends to prevent this outcome by securing first rights to Hezonja’s return to Europe. In recent talks, Hezonja’s agent offered to pay Real Madrid a higher buyout than the contract clause, but the club countered with a demand to retain priority negotiation rights if Hezonja returns to Europe. This approach mirrors a previous arrangement when Hezonja left the EuroLeague for the NBA and then returned, with Barcelona holding first rights and receiving a €400,000 payment when he signed with UNICS Kazan.

Hezonja, drafted fifth overall in 2015, has NBA experience with Portland, New York, and Orlando. Last season, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. Real Madrid’s move aims to control Hezonja’s future in Europe and avoid losing him to rival EuroLeague teams without compensation.