Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland hosted his first annual celebrity softball game on Saturday, writes Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com (subscription required). While the two-time All-Star was unable to participate in the festivities beyond taking a few swings in the batting cage and throwing out the first pitch, he provided an encouraging health update.
“I feel great. The recovery process is going well. But I’m here for my foundation,” Garland said. “I’m here to spread some positivity around the city of Cleveland and trying to have a good time. I always loved baseball, so I tried to make it a little bit competitive and kind of friendly as well.
“It’s my first one, so I’m kind of nervous, but I hope it’s going to be really cool and everybody really enjoys themselves.”
Garland, who made his second All-Star team last season, underwent surgery in June to repair the left great toe injury that hampered him in the postseason. He’s expected to miss some time to start the 2025/26 season.
Garland’s name has popped up in trade rumors for the second straight offseason, though things have quieted down considerably of late. The Kings and Suns were reportedly among the teams that expressed interest in the 25-year-old.
According to Fedor, seven members of the Cavaliers — including Garland — were present at the event, with the others being Evan Mobley, Jaylon Tyson, Max Strus, head coach Kenny Atkinson, president of basketball operations Koby Altman, and executive Grant Gilbert. Free agent center Tristan Thompson, who has spent the past two years with Cleveland, also participated.
“This city has embraced me since day one, and this event is a way to give that love back,” Garland said, per Fedor. “It’s more than just a game — it’s a celebration with purpose, supporting the work we’re doing through the Darius Garland Foundation to uplift and empower others in a meaningful way.”