CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers battled back from an 11-point halftime deficit against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night, but a late three-pointer from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander helped Oklahoma City escape Rocket Arena with a 117-112 victory.
Cleveland trailed by as many as 14 points in the third quarter before mounting a comeback that carried into the final minutes. The Cavaliers eventually tied the game at 112 with just over a minute remaining, but couldn't complete the rally.
The Cavaliers started well, taking a 30-26 lead after the opening quarter behind Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. However, Oklahoma City took control in the second quarter, outscoring Cleveland 33-18 to build a 59-48 halftime advantage.
Cleveland began fighting back in the third quarter, using its outside shooting to cut into the deficit. Mitchell and James Harden connected from beyond the arc, while Meleek Thomas knocked down a pair of three-pointers to help the Cavaliers stay within striking distance. Mario Hezonja also provided a spark, scoring nine points over the final five minutes of the quarter as Cleveland trimmed the Thunder's lead to 90-84.
The fourth quarter became a back-and-forth battle as Cleveland continued its comeback. Allen converted a three-point play to give the Cavaliers a 98-96 advantage with 7:35 remaining, and the teams traded leads throughout the closing minutes.
Mobley gave Cleveland a 108-105 lead with a layup at the 3:21 mark, but a technical foul on Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson gave Oklahoma City an opportunity to cut into the deficit. Gilgeous-Alexander converted the technical free throw before connecting on a jumper to tie the game at 108. Oklahoma City eventually moved ahead 112-109 before Sam Merrill connected on a three-pointer with 1:01 remaining to tie the score again.
However, the Thunder had the final answer. After an Oklahoma City offensive rebound extended its possession, Gilgeous-Alexander buried a stepback three-pointer with 32 seconds remaining to put the Thunder ahead for good at 115-112.
Cleveland had an opportunity to respond, but Merrill missed a three-pointer with 25 seconds remaining leading to two Ajay Mitchell free throws to ice the game.
The loss was a frustrating finish for a Cavaliers team that fought back after a poor first half. Cleveland outscored Oklahoma City 64-58 after halftime, but Gilgeous-Alexander's late shot ultimately decided the contest.
What's Next
The Cavaliers will get another opportunity against the Thunder on Wednesday, November 4, when the teams meet again in Oklahoma City. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.
