Nic Barlage
Nic Barlage is Chief Executive Officer of Rock Entertainment Group (REG), the entity behind Cavaliers Chairman Dan Gilbert's Rock Family of Companies. The group encompasses the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, the AHL Cleveland Monsters, the NBA G League Cleveland Charge, the Cavs Legion in the NBA 2K League, and the newly formed Rock Entertainment Sports Network (RESN). REG also manages operations of key venues such as the Cleveland Clinic Courts and Rocket Arena, the epicenter of sports and entertainment in Cleveland.
Barlage joined the Cavaliers in 2017 as President of Business Operations, overseeing the 2019-2020 transformation of Rocket Arena, solidifying its status the epicenter of sports and entertainment in downtown Cleveland and the largest driver of economic impact in Cuyahoga County. In 2021, he was named CEO of the Cavaliers and REG.
Before joining the Cavaliers, Barlage served as the Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer for the Phoenix Suns during the 2013-14 season, leading their premium and ticket sales and marketing endeavors. Earlier, Barlage spent five seasons with the Cavaliers, culminating in his role as Vice President of Sales and Service before his move to Phoenix. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he honed his expertise in suite and premium seating during stints with the Suns and the Charlotte Bobcats, totaling three seasons.
Fulfilling the vision of REG Chairman Dan Gilbert, under Barlage’s leadership REG has transformed from a regional force into a global catalyst for change. The Cavaliers have forged partnerships across all levels, from local neighborhoods to international communities, amplifying their impact far beyond Northeast Ohio. This expansive reach has translated into tangible results: over $48 million invested in community initiatives and more than 52,000 volunteer hours contributed by team members. REG’s support extends to organizations tackling critical issues such as education, food security, violence prevention and youth development. By creating safe spaces and enriching programs, REG isn’t just improving communities – it’s reshaping futures.
Barlage is member of Cosm’s board, a global technology company that creates immersive “shared reality” entertainment. He also serves on advisory boards for esteemed institutions such as the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, American Red Cross, Cleveland Leadership Center, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Clinic Pediatrics Leadership Council, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Ohio and Hathaway Brown School.
A proud graduate of Saint John’s University (Minn.), Barlage earned a degree in Psychology in May 2006. He and his wife, Traci, have two daughters, Brooklyn and Kennedy.