Cavaliers Win Overtime Thriller, Take 3-2 Series Lead

Why it matters locally: The Cleveland Cavaliers' victory directly impacts fans and residents across Ohio, as the team is now one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in overtime on Wednesday, taking a 3-2 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals. James Harden led Cleveland with 30 points, including key contributions in the overtime period. Cleveland claimed its first road victory of the postseason, positioning itself one win away from advancing. The Cavaliers will host Game 6 on Friday with an opportunity to close out the series. The New York Knicks await the series winner in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Cavaliers, who trailed by 15 points in the first half, mounted a comeback. Detroit's Cade Cunningham registered a game-high 39 points, adding nine assists and seven rebounds. Daniss Jenkins contributed 19 points for the Pistons. Cleveland erased a nine-point deficit late in the fourth quarter with a 13-0 scoring run that extended into overtime. Evan Mobley tied the game at the end of regulation with a dunk and two free throws. Donovan Mitchell added 21 points for Cleveland, and Max Strus scored 20 off the bench. Jarrett Allen recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.