Cavs to start training camp in Florida

The Cavaliers are heading back to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for the start of training camp. For the second consecutive year, they will head to the Sunshine State from Sept. 30 to Oct. 5. The six-day camp will mark the official start of Cleveland's preparations for the 2025-26 NBA season. "Returning to IMG Academy is a testament to the tremendous experience we had there last year," Cavs president of basketball operations Koby Altman said in a statement. "The overall engagement, both at the Bradenton facility and throughout that community, was an invaluable part of our preseason preparations. "Being on Florida's Gulf Coast also provided an ideal backdrop for our team to focus, recharge and come together in ways that are hard to replicate outside of Cleveland. We look forward to another great training camp at IMG Academy and immersing ourselves into the vibrant cultural scene that Sarasota offers." Cleveland became the first NBA team last year to hold training camp at IMG Academy, the world's leading sports education brand. The 600-acre campus in Bradenton is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple basketball courts and comprehensive strength and conditioning resources. IMG Academy offers a holistic education model, integrating innovative on-campus and online experiences to prepare student-athletes for college and life. Prior to training at IMG Academy in 2024, the Cavs last held a remote training camp during the 2004-05 season at Capital University in Columbus. "The return of the Cleveland Cavaliers for a second consecutive year is a powerful reflection of the trust top organizations place in IMG Academy," IMG Academy chief operation office Mike Milliron said. "Our world-class campus provides the environment, expertise, staff and resources that are a perfect fit for the Cavs, and we can't wait to welcome them back to our one-of-one destination ahead of their NBA season." Before heading to Florida, the Cavs will hold Media Day on Monday, Sept, 29, at Rocket Arena. Cleveland's four-game preseason schedule tips off with a home game at Rocket Arena vs. Chicago on Oct. 7, followed by road contests at Chicago on Oct. 9 and Boston on Oct. 12 and concludes with a home game against Detroit on Oct. 14. Bob Finnan can be reached at rfinnan30@gmail.com. Follow him @BobCavsinsider on X.