Nick Mileti, a significant figure in Cleveland sports history known for co-founding the Cleveland Cavaliers, has passed away at the age of 93. He died in his sleep in Rocky River, Ohio, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the Cleveland Guardians, a team he once owned. Mileti, the son of Sicilian immigrants, rose to prominence after acquiring the Cleveland Barons hockey team and Cleveland Arena in 1968, establishing himself as a key player in the city’s sports scene. In 1970, he played a pivotal role in bringing the NBA to Cleveland by selling shares of the Cavaliers expansion team for $5 each, raising $2.25 million to cover the $3.7 million expansion fee.
The Cavaliers paid tribute to Mileti’s legacy, describing him as a visionary who turned dreams into reality for countless Cleveland sports fans. He later became the principal owner of the city’s MLB team, then known as the Indians, and was involved in the construction of the Richfield Coliseum, which served as the Cavaliers’ home arena from 1974 to 1994. Additionally, Mileti acquired a World Hockey Association franchise in 1972, relocating it from Calgary to Cleveland and renaming it the Crusaders, while also owning two prominent radio stations in the city.
Despite facing challenges and eventually selling his ownership stakes in the Indians and Cavaliers, Mileti remained involved in the sports industry. In 1979, he moved to California to work on producing plays and movies and later founded the Las Vegas Posse in the Canadian Football League. Mileti was recognized for his enduring impact on Cleveland sports, being inducted into the Cavaliers’ Wall of Honor in 2019 and receiving an NBA championship ring during the team’s 50th anniversary celebration for their 2015-16 title win.
Former Cavs player Jim Chones acknowledged Mileti’s lasting legacy, highlighting his dedication to enhancing Cleveland’s sports community. Despite his soft-spoken demeanor, Mileti’s influence was profound, earning him respect and admiration in the city he dearly loved.