Despite being shorthanded for the third consecutive game, the Cleveland Cavaliers (8-6) showcased their resilience, securing their fourth consecutive victory with a thrilling 122-119 overtime win against the Philadelphia 76ers (10-4) in the NBA In-Season Tournament.
Darius Garland’s stellar performance, contributing 32 points, and Jarrett Allen’s 26-point contribution were instrumental in the Cavaliers’ triumph, maintaining their winning momentum despite missing key players Donovan Mitchell, Caris LeVert, and Isaac Okoro due to injuries.
In a well-balanced offensive effort, the Cavaliers had six players in double figures, dominating the paint and outrebounding the Sixers 61-53, with a significant 68-52 advantage in points in the paint.
The 76ers, now eliminated from tournament contention after losing both games on their home court, faced a formidable Cavaliers team that has secured four straight victories and continues to vie for the Eastern Conference’s wild-card berth.
Joel Embiid’s impressive 32-point performance and Tyrese Maxey’s 30-point contribution weren’t enough to overcome the Cavaliers, marking the 76ers’ third consecutive home loss after an initial six-game winning streak at home this season.
Throughout the game, the Cavaliers controlled the tempo, establishing an 18-point lead early in the third quarter.
Although Maxey and Embiid orchestrated a comeback, cutting the Cavaliers’ lead to nine by the end of the third quarter and briefly taking a one-point lead, the Cavaliers maintained composure.
Allen’s crucial 8-foot hook shot, facilitated by Craig Porter’s ninth assist, proved to be the game-changer, giving the Cavaliers a 120-119 lead with 18 seconds left in overtime.
Despite missed layups by Embiid and Maxey at the other end, the Cavaliers secured the win.
As a pivotal moment, Garland sealed the victory with two free throws after Embiid fouled out, and the Sixers’ hopes for a second overtime were dashed when Maxey’s final 3-point attempt fell short.
