Nick Mileti, a key figure in Cleveland’s sports landscape in the 1970s, passed away at the age of 93 in his sleep. He played an instrumental role in establishing the Cleveland Cavaliers and other sports franchises in the city. Mileti’s journey began when he purchased the minor league hockey team, the Cleveland Barons, and the Cleveland Arena in 1968, laying the foundation for his sports empire. He was known as a true powerbroker in the city after forming ownership groups that acquired or created various sports franchises.
In 1970, Mileti and his group made history by bringing the NBA to Cleveland with the creation of the Cavaliers. They sold shares of the expansion team at $5 each to raise funds, showcasing Mileti’s ability to turn dreams into reality. The Cavaliers recognized his contributions, stating that he changed the course of Cleveland sports history and left a lasting impact on the community. Mileti’s passion and commitment to sports will be deeply missed by fans and fellow sports enthusiasts in the city.
Apart from the Cavaliers, Mileti acquired controlling interest in the Cleveland Indians, now known as the Guardians, in 1972. He was part of a group that included future U.S. Senator Howard Metzenbaum and played a significant role in overseeing the construction of the Richfield Coliseum. In addition to baseball and basketball, Mileti also ventured into the world of hockey by purchasing a World Hockey Association franchise and relocating it to Cleveland, where it became the Crusaders. His ownership extended beyond sports teams to include two of the city’s major radio stations.
Despite his initial success, Mileti faced challenges that led to him selling his stakes in the Indians and the Cavaliers. The Crusaders ceased operations in 1976 after the arrival of an NHL team in Cleveland. However, Mileti’s passion for sports persisted, as he returned to the industry by founding the Canadian Football League’s Las Vegas Posse. He also ventured into media ownership, owning multiple radio stations and authoring three books.
Mileti’s impact on Cleveland sports continued to be felt even after his departure from the city. In 2019, he was inducted into the Cavaliers’ Wall of Honor as part of the team’s 50th-anniversary celebration. During the ceremony, he was honored with an NBA championship ring from the Cavaliers’ historic title-winning season in 2015-16. Former Cavs star Jim Chones paid tribute to Mileti, highlighting his dedication to making Cleveland great again and the lasting impression he left on those he encountered. Mileti’s legacy as a pioneer in the world of sports will live on through the teams and fans he touched throughout his illustrious career.
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