Nick Mileti (1931-2024): Cleveland founder passes away at 93.

Nick Mileti, the founder of the Cleveland Cavaliers, has passed away at the age of 93. He was a prominent figure in Cleveland’s sports scene in the 1970s and played a crucial role in bringing the NBA to Cleveland.

Mileti was a true pioneer in the world of sports, and his passion and commitment to the Cavaliers and the city of Cleveland will be deeply missed. He is survived by his legacy, which includes the Cavaliers, the Richfield Coliseum, and the memories of countless fans in Cleveland.

Nick Mileti was a visionary entrepreneur and sports enthusiast who made a lasting impact on the city of Cleveland and the NBA. He was a successful businessman with interests in real estate, finance, and entertainment, and played a key role in bringing other professional sports teams to Cleveland, including the Cleveland Force and the Cleveland Crunch.

Mileti was known for his innovative approach to sports marketing and promotion, introducing novel concepts like the “Cavaliers’ Girls” dance team and the “Miracle in Richfield” campaign. He was instrumental in the development of the Richfield Coliseum, which hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, boxing matches, and NCAA tournaments.

Mileti’s leadership and ownership of the Cavaliers helped establish the team as a competitive force in the NBA, with notable players like Austin Carr, Bingo Smith, and Nate Thurmond. His contributions to the Cleveland sports scene have been recognized through various awards and honors, including induction into the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame.

Overall, Mileti’s legacy extends far beyond his founding of the Cavaliers, encompassing his innovative approach to sports marketing, his commitment to the Cleveland community, and his lasting impact on the world of professional sports.