NEW DELHI: Darius Garland led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 122-119 overtime victory against the Philadelphia 76ers in an NBA in-season tournament game. Garland scored 32 points, while teammates Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley recorded double-doubles. The win extended Cleveland's winning streak to four games and improved their record to 2-1 in the East Group A of the in-season tournament.
Cleveland initially built an 18-point lead, but the 76ers mounted a comeback, with Joel Embiid scoring 32 points, including a crucial run in the fourth quarter. Tobias Harris contributed 23 points, hitting a game-tying 3-pointer to force overtime.
In the extra session, both teams traded leads, and the game remained tight until the final seconds. Jarrett Allen's go-ahead basket with 18 seconds left proved decisive, and Garland sealed the victory with two free throws.
Max Strus scored 20 points for the Cavaliers, making five 3-pointers, while Evan Mobley had 18 points and 12 rebounds. Jarrett Allen notched 26 points and matched Joel Embiid's game-high 13 rebounds.
Despite missing Donovan Mitchell due to a hamstring injury for the third consecutive game, the Cavaliers showcased resilience and teamwork to secure the win. The victory moved them to 2-2 in in-season tournament play.
Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 30 points and six assists, while Joel Embiid contributed 13 rebounds and five blocked shots. De'Anthony Melton added 13 points for Philadelphia.
The closely contested matchup showcased the competitive nature of both teams, with the Cavaliers ultimately emerging victorious in overtime.
(With Reuters inputs)