Donovan Mitchell guided the Cleveland Cavaliers (22-15) to a 111-102 triumph over the Brooklyn Nets (16-22) in the NBA’s third regular-season game held in Paris.
Mitchell, reaching a season-high 45 points, showcased his scoring dominance. Alongside his scoring barrage, Mitchell contributed 12 rebounds, six assists, and four steals, a feat matched only by Cavaliers legend LeBron James.
Caris LeVert chipped in with 21 points, while Jarrett Allen notched a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, extending his streak to a career-best eight consecutive double-doubles. The Cavaliers’ victory marked their fourth straight.
Despite the Nets’ efforts, led by Mikal Bridges and Cam Thomas, who both scored 26 points, the team struggled to overcome a significant first-half deficit.
Lonnie Walker IV’s energetic performance off the bench wasn’t enough to turn the tide for the struggling Nets, who have now lost 12 of their last 15 games.
The NBA’s Paris showcase featured a star-studded crowd, including French soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé and former NBA stars Tony Parker and Joakim Noah. While the game didn’t provide the expected fireworks, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver hinted at a promising future, expressing the league’s intention to return to France next season with potentially more games.
As Mitchell continues to shine on the court, his aspirations extend beyond the NBA. The Olympic gold medalist hopes to add another accolade to his list when the Paris 2024 Olympics arrive, aiming to join LeBron James as Team USA’s gold medalist.
