James Harden stars as Cavs fight back to beat Pistons in overtime for 3-2 series lead

The Cleveland Cavaliers edged past the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in overtime on Wednesday night, moving one step away from a place in the NBA Eastern Conference finals. With the victory, Cleveland now leads the best-of-seven semi-final series 3-2 and will return home for Game 6, where they have a chance to seal the series and advance to face the New York Knicks.

The Cavaliers overcame a strong start from the top-seeded Pistons, who built a lead of up to 15 points in the first half. Detroit, led by 39 points from Cade Cunningham, also looked in control late in the fourth quarter after a dominant 12-0 run pushed them ahead by nine with just under four minutes remaining.

However, Cleveland once again showed resilience. Evan Mobley sparked the comeback with key baskets, including a dunk and two crucial free throws that helped level the score at 45.2 seconds left in regulation. That momentum carried into overtime, as part of a 13-0 run across the final minutes of the fourth quarter and the start of the extra period gave the Cavaliers control of the game.



In overtime, the Pistons continued to fight back, with Cunningham hitting a jump shot to cut the deficit to two points with under 30 seconds remaining. But Cleveland held firm defensively to close out the win.

James Harden led the Cavaliers with 30 points, providing veteran leadership in crucial moments after being acquired in February. Donovan Mitchell contributed 21 points, while Max Strus added 20 points off the bench. Jarrett Allen also made an impact with 16 points and 10 rebounds, as Cleveland continued its unbeaten home playoff record.


"Great time to have a first road win," Harden told broadcaster ESPN, as quoted by Reuters, after Cleveland secured their third straight win, moving within reach of their first appearance in the conference finals since 2018.


Head coach Kenny Atkinson praised Harden’s composure and experience, saying his presence has brought stability and maturity to the team in pressure situations. He added that Harden’s signing was made specifically to strengthen Cleveland in tight playoff games.

For Detroit, Cunningham not only scored 39 points but also added seven rebounds and nine assists. Daniss Jenkins contributed 19 points, but the Pistons fell short despite strong stretches, including their late-game surge.

Cleveland now holds momentum heading into Game 6, while Detroit must win in Cleveland to force a decisive Game 7. The winner will advance to the Eastern Conference finals against the New York Knicks, who have already secured their place after sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers.