Cleveland Cavaliers Set to Hold 2024-25 Training Camp at Bradenton’s IMG Academy

The Cleveland Cavaliers will be heading to Bradenton for their training camp ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.

From October 1-6, the team will train at IMG Academy, marking the first time the prestigious sports academy has hosted an NBA team’s preseason camp. While this is a new venture with an NBA franchise, IMG Academy has previously welcomed Major League Soccer clubs, international teams, the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders, and college football teams from Florida State University and the University of Michigan.

“The city of Sarasota and IMG Academy in Bradenton is the perfect backdrop for our training camp this year,” said Koby Altman, the Cavaliers’ president of basketball operations, in a press release. “This is a unique opportunity for us to utilize a world-class facility away from our usual environment, providing an excellent setting for building team chemistry and culture.”

During their stay, Cavaliers players and staff will also have opportunities to connect with the Sarasota and Bradenton communities.

Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, expressed enthusiasm about the team’s visit. “When we learned the Cleveland Cavaliers selected IMG Academy as their training camp home, it didn’t come as a surprise as it reinforces the value IMG brings to our community,” Falcione said. “The Cavs players, coaches, and staff, as well as their fans, can enjoy our laid-back nature and look at Bradenton as a home away from home as they embark on a new season.”

The Cavaliers are coming off a season where they reached the Eastern Conference semifinals but fell to the Boston Celtics in five games. The Celtics went on to win the NBA championship.

Last season, Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers in scoring, averaging 26.6 points per game. Jarrett Allen was the team's top rebounder with 10.5 boards per game, while Darius Garland led in assists, averaging 6.5 per game.