Cavaliers Hold Off Bucks in Thrilling Home Opener

Strategic Insights -

In a high-scoring match, Donovan Mitchell's 24 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter, helped the Cleveland Cavaliers secure a 118-113 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in their home opener. Evan Mobley contributed a career-high 23 points, going 12 for 12 on free throws, and added eight rebounds and six assists. This achievement marks the 23rd time in franchise history a Cavaliers player made all their free throws when making 12 or more trips, matching LeBron James' record from 2014.

Key Takeaways:

  • Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 24 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter.
  • Evan Mobley had a career-best 23 points, making 12 consecutive free throws, and added eight rebounds and six assists.
  • The Cavaliers' win marked their second straight after opening with a loss, while the Bucks were without several key players.
  • Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 40 points and 14 rebounds for the Bucks, but missed a triple-double by one assist.
  • Milwaukee's AJ Green scored 20 points, but the Cavaliers held off a late comeback.
  • Sam Merrill and De'Andre Hunter contributed 17 and 16 points respectively for the Cavaliers.
  • Milwaukee trailed by 18 midway through the third quarter before mounting a comeback.
  • The Cavaliers' Lonzo Ball made a key 3-pointer, and Mitchell followed with a clutch 14-footer to help seal the win.

Statistics:

  • Donovan Mitchell scored 10 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Cavaliers to victory.
  • Evan Mobley went 12 for 12 from the free-throw line, matching LeBron James' record from 2014.
  • The Cavaliers' 118 points mark their second-highest score this season.
  • Giannis Antetokounmpo fell one assist shy of a triple-double with 40 points and 14 rebounds for the Bucks.
  • Milwaukee trailed by 18 in the third quarter before the Cavaliers' 7-0 run in the fourth quarter.
  • The Cavaliers' current two-game winning streak follows a season-opening loss.

Sources:

  • AP (2025)