Cavaliers Edge Pistons in Overtime, Take 3-2 Series Lead

(CNA, Los Angeles, 13th, Comprehensive Foreign Report) In the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals, the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by veteran James Harden's stellar 30-point performance, narrowly defeated the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in a hard-fought overtime battle, taking a 3-2 lead in the series.

According to AFP, Harden told ESPN, "This is the best time to get our first road win." The Cavaliers are now just one step away from their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2018.

The Pistons, led by star player Cade Cunningham, built a 15-point lead in the first half. The Cavaliers launched a comeback in the third quarter, but the fourth quarter became a seesaw battle. A 12-0 run by the Pistons seemed to put them in control, leading by 9 points with 3:57 left in regulation.

The Cavaliers once again showed their resilience. Evan Mobley's dunk and two made free throws tied the game with 45.2 seconds remaining. The Cavaliers then sparked a 13-0 run that spanned the end of the fourth quarter and the beginning of overtime, establishing a firm lead.

Cunningham hit a mid-range jumper with 25.9 seconds left in overtime, briefly cutting the Pistons' deficit to two points, but they failed to score again.

Donovan Mitchell scored 21 points for the Cavaliers, Max Strus contributed 20 points off the bench, and Jarrett Allen posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

For the Pistons, Cunningham had an outstanding game with 39 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds, while Daniss Jenkins added 19 points. The Pistons must now win in Cleveland to force a Game 7 back in Detroit.

Harden stated that the Cavaliers are undefeated at home in the playoffs this season but must not let their guard down against a Pistons team that overcame a 1-3 deficit to defeat the Magic in the first round. (Translator: Chang Ming-hsuan) 1150514