Cleveland Cavaliers closed the calendar year with a convincing 129-113 win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night at Rocket Arena. The victory lifted Cleveland to 19-16 and snapped Phoenix’s four-game winning streak.
Donovan Mitchell delivered one of the most complete performances of his season, finishing with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in just 30 minutes. It marked his 18th 30-point game, the third-most in the NBA.
Mitchell was efficient throughout, shooting 10-of-18 from the field and knocking down four three-pointers. The All-Star guard, who entered the night fourth in the league in scoring at 29.7 points per game, also went 10-of-12 from the free-throw line.
Cleveland took control early after falling behind 8-5, responding with a 16-0 run that included four straight three-pointers. The Cavaliers carried a 67-54 lead into halftime and appeared in command.
Phoenix surged back in the third quarter behind Devin Booker, who scored 20 of his 32 points in the period. The Suns trimmed the deficit to two late in the quarter after trailing by double digits.
After the Suns closed within 91-89 on a pair of free throws by Jordan Goodwin, Cleveland answered decisively. The Cavaliers ripped off a 24-5 run, shooting 10-of-13 during the stretch while holding Phoenix to 2-of-10 shooting.
Mitchell scored eight points during that run, while rookie wing Jaylon Tyson added six. Cleveland’s lead ballooned to 125-101 with under four minutes remaining, effectively sealing the game.
Darius Garland added 19 points and six assists, providing steady playmaking alongside Mitchell. Sam Merrill contributed 16 points off the bench.
Cleveland’s frontcourt also delivered. Evan Mobley posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Jarrett Allen finished with 16 points and 11 boards as both recorded double-doubles.
The Cavaliers shot 50 percent from the field and recorded 31 assists on 48 made baskets. They also won the rebounding battle 54-52 and limited Phoenix’s efficiency during the decisive fourth quarter.
For Phoenix, Dillon Brooks scored all 20 of his points in the first half, and Collin Gillespie added 17. The Suns finished 40 percent from the field despite hitting 15 three-pointers.
Phoenix dropped to 19-14 after a 7-5 December and will host Sacramento on Friday. Cleveland, which went 7-7 this month, hosts Denver in its first game of 2026.
