The Cleveland Cavaliers rallied from a late deficit in regulation to force overtime, paving the way for a 117-113 victory over the host Detroit Pistons in a crucial Game 5 of their Eastern Conference semi-finals series on Thursday, May 14, 2026 (Philippine time).
Cavs Take 3-2 Series Lead
The win gave the Cavaliers a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, putting them two wins away from advancing to the conference finals. Awaiting them there are the New York Knicks, who swept the Philadelphia 76ers 4-0 in the other conference semi-finals series.
James Harden led the Cavaliers with 30 points, while Donovan Mitchell added 21 points, seven of which came in overtime.
The Pistons seemed poised for victory after taking a 103-94 lead on a three-point shot by Tobias Harris with 3:00 minutes remaining in regulation.
Cavaliers' Comeback
However, the Cavaliers responded with a 9-0 run to tie the game 103-103 and force overtime. During that rally, Evan Mobley contributed seven points on a dunk, a three-pointer, and two free throws.
In overtime, the Cavaliers scored the first four points to take a 107-103 lead and never relinquished the advantage.
Reserve player Max Strus added 20 points for the Cavaliers, including six three-pointers. Mobley finished with 19 points, and Jarrett Allen contributed 16 points.
The Pistons were led by Cade Cunningham with 39 points. Daniss Jenkins added 19 points, and Paul Reed chipped in 10 points.
This was the first time in the series that the visiting team won.
