If you can't get the shield, I'd get mi box or fire tv. Mi box has built in chromecast. While fire TV cannot cast, it is still excellent at streaming live sports. I do it using Reddit streams in Puffin Tv Browser.
This is Google's fault for bad marketing, but this is a TV box with Android. Not Android TV. Only Android TV supports Chromecast. If you know the difference this might be a good device.
I have this box, it's alright. Serves it purpose if you just care to watch Terrarium and Kodi. I think a couple of apps can get it to cast but those aren't the best. For your needs, I'd suggest a Mi Box. The cast function works smooth and it has plenty of speed for basic tasks.
Why buy an unknown POS. You can get firestick for like $30 which will suffice for your stated needs