Cleveland mourns the passing of Nick Mileti, a pivotal figure in its sports history, whose legacy will endure through generations.
At a Glance
- Nick Mileti, founder of the Cleveland Cavaliers, has died at age 93.
- Mileti passed away in his sleep in Rocky River, Ohio.
- Mileti’s leadership significantly changed Cleveland’s sports scene in the 1970s.
- Constructed the Richfield Coliseum; brought the NBA to Cleveland by founding the Cavaliers.
Remembering Nick Mileti
Cleveland is in mourning following the death of Nick Mileti, a monumental figure in the city’s sports scene, who passed away at the age of 93. Mileti, whose visionary leadership profoundly influenced Cleveland sports, died peacefully in his sleep in Rocky River, Ohio.
As the founder of the Cleveland Cavaliers and former owner of the Cleveland Indians, Mileti’s contributions cannot be overstated. In 1968, he purchased the Cleveland Barons and the Cleveland Arena, which set the stage for bringing NBA basketball to Cleveland. In 1970, Mileti founded the Cavaliers, raising $2.25 million by selling shares at $5 each to cover the $3.7 million expansion fee.
The Cleveland Guardians are saddened by the loss of former owner Nick Mileti.
A native Clevelander, Mileti was a staple of the 1970s sports world.
Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/evSpbN8M3s
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) August 22, 2024
A Lasting Impact
Mileti’s influence extended beyond basketball. In 1972, he purchased a controlling interest in Cleveland’s MLB team, then known as the Indians. He also oversaw the construction of the Richfield Coliseum, which opened in 1974 as the largest NBA arena at the time and remained the Cavaliers’ home for 20 years. Mileti’s investment in the sports infrastructure of Cleveland was integral to the city’s sense of community and pride.
“A true pioneer in the world of sports, Nick was not just a leader; he was a dreamer who transformed that dream into reality for countless fans in Cleveland,” the Cavaliers said in a statement. “Nick Mileti changed the course of Cleveland sports history, and his passion and commitment will be deeply missed.”
In addition to his sports ventures, Mileti owned two of Cleveland’s largest radio stations, acquired and relocated a World Hockey Association franchise to Cleveland (renaming it the Crusaders), and ventured into theater and film production in California. He authored three books and helped establish the Canadian Football League’s Las Vegas Posse. His diverse achievements reflect a bold and entrepreneurial spirit that left an indelible mark on multiple fields.
Lasting Tributes
Nick Mileti’s influence on Cleveland sports earned him a place on the Cavaliers’ Wall of Honor in 2019 and an NBA championship ring from the Cavs’ 2015-16 title team. The Cleveland Cavaliers released a statement expressing their sadness and highlighting Mileti’s contributions to the team and the city.
“The Cleveland Cavaliers are saddened to learn of the passing of Nick Mileti, the beloved founder whose passion and vision ignited the spirit of Cavaliers basketball in our great city. A true pioneer in the world of sports, Nick was not just a leader; he was a dreamer who transformed that dream into reality for countless fans in Cleveland.”
Former Cavaliers legends Campy Russell, Austin Carr, and Jim Chones shared heartfelt tributes, underscoring Mileti’s lasting influence on not only the teams he owned but on the city of Cleveland itself. As Jim Chones noted, “Nick was rewarded with longevity because he touched many in his mission to make Cleveland great again. His voice was soft but confident, demanding attention. He loved Cleveland, and Cleveland loved him.”
