SPORTS

Cavaliers rally past Pistons in overtime, lead series

PUBLISHED May 12, 2026, 7:04 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

DETROIT - The Cleveland Cavaliers rallied past the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in overtime on Wednesday night, erasing a late nine-point deficit to seize a 3-2 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal series. James Harden scored 30 points and Donovan Mitchell added 21 as Cleveland completed the comeback at Little Caesars Arena and snapped Detroit’s five-game home winning streak. The result places the Cavs in control heading into Game 6 on Friday in Cleveland; if Detroit wins, a deciding Game 7 would be scheduled for Sunday in Detroit. Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff had earlier criticized officiating after Game 4, and Detroit’s Cade Cunningham finished Game 5 with 39 points and six turnovers, creating elimination pressure for the Pistons.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Monday: Cavaliers won Game 4, 112-103; Mitchell dominated the third quarter.
After Game 4: Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff criticized officiating and cited a free-throw disparity.
Pre-Game 5: Pistons emphasized adjustments; Paul Reed highlighted execution and energy needs.
Wednesday night: Cavaliers rallied for a 117-113 overtime win; Harden 30, Mitchell 21, Cunningham 39.
Friday: Game 6 scheduled in Cleveland; Pistons must win to force Game 7 on Sunday.

News Intelligence

This game is a testament to the Cavaliers' resilience and the Pistons' fighting spirit. If you're a fan, it's a thrilling time. If you're not, it's a great reminder of the excitement and unpredictability of sports. Check out Game 6 on Friday to see if the Pistons can bounce back.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

The Cleveland Cavaliers benefited from the comeback; Harden and Mitchell’s scoring and the late 13-0 run secured a 3-2 series lead and shifted playoff momentum ahead of Game 6 in Cleveland.

Who Impacted

The Detroit Pistons suffered a late collapse that snapped a five-game home win streak, produced costly turnovers by key players, and left the team facing elimination pressure heading into Game 6.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Cleveland Cavaliers benefited from the comeback; Harden and Mitchell’s scoring and the late 13-0 run secured a 3-2 series lead and shifted playoff momentum ahead of Game 6 in Cleveland.

Who Impacted

The Detroit Pistons suffered a late collapse that snapped a five-game home win streak, produced costly turnovers by key players, and left the team facing elimination pressure heading into Game 6.