Cavaliers Edge Bucks 118-113 in Thrilling Home Opener

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 118-113 in a thrilling home opener at the Rocket Arena on Sunday night. Evan Mobley led the Cavaliers with 24 points, including 10 crucial points in the fourth quarter.

Mobley shot a perfect 12-for-12 from the free throw line, contributing eight rebounds and six assists. His performance marked the first time since LeBron James accomplished the feat in 2014 that a Cavaliers player has gone perfect from the line with 12 or more attempts.

Donovan Mitchell added 24 points for Cleveland, while Sam Merrill contributed 17 points. The Cavaliers improved to 2-1, bouncing back after losing their opener. The Bucks, who also hold a 2-1 record, missed several key players, including Kevin Porter Jr. and Myles Turner due to injuries.

Giannis Antetokounmpo starred for Milwaukee, finishing just one assist shy of a triple-double with 40 points and 14 rebounds. Despite his efforts, the Bucks struggled to maintain their momentum after trailing by 18 points midway through the third quarter.

The game saw several lead changes, particularly in the fourth quarter as Milwaukee attempted a comeback led by Antetokounmpo. With the score tied at 98, Cleveland responded with a 7-0 run to regain control, capped by a critical step-back jumper from Hunter and a timely three-pointer from Mitchell.

Although the Bucks closed the gap to 114-112 late in the game, Mobley’s free throws in the final seconds secured the Cavaliers’ victory. The Cavaliers also dominated the rebounding battle, outpacing the Bucks 58-45, which allowed for additional scoring opportunities.

The Cavaliers will next face the New York Knicks on Monday night, while Milwaukee will host the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday.