(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Cavaliers Rally Past Pistons 117-113 in Overtime to Take 3-2 Series Lead
The Cleveland Cavaliers edged the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in overtime in a thrilling playoff contest on Wednesday night, taking a 3-2 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.
James Harden led the Cavaliers with a playoff-best 30 points, while Donovan Mitchell added 21 points to help power the comeback win.
Detroit controlled much of the game early, building a 15-point lead in the first half and still leading 103-94 with just over two minutes remaining in regulation. However, Cleveland mounted a strong late comeback to force overtime.
The Cavaliers tied the game at 103-103 when Evan Mobley converted crucial free throws with 45.2 seconds left in the fourth quarter, completing the late surge.
Cleveland then carried the momentum into overtime, going on a decisive 13-0 run while holding Detroit scoreless for a key stretch.
Mitchell helped seal the win with a three-pointer that gave the Cavaliers a seven-point lead with under three minutes remaining in overtime.
Detroit star Cade Cunningham led all scorers with 39 points and nine assists but was unable to prevent the late collapse as Cleveland closed out the game.
The victory gives the Cavaliers a crucial series advantage as both teams head into Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinal.
