Cleveland races ahead
Cleveland opened a lead of up to 29 points and entered halftime 24 points ahead in Thursday night’s game in Philadelphia. Donovan Mitchell scored 22 points in the first half and finished with 32 in the Cavaliers’ season opener.
Philadelphia made four of its 15 three-point attempts and committed 14 turnovers before halftime. Boos came from the home crowd late in the second quarter as the Cavaliers widened their advantage.
Fourth-quarter run transforms the game
The 76ers cut into the deficit during the second half before scoring 15 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to move ahead. Maxey’s defensive pressure helped ignite that stretch.
Joel Embiid supplied seven straight Philadelphia points as the 76ers reached a 96-95 lead. He finished with 24 points, while Maxey led the team with 32 as Philadelphia completed the comeback and won by eight.
James contributes in home debut
James recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds in his first home appearance for Philadelphia. His scoring included a two-handed dunk in the first half and a basket created by a Maxey steal. News4JAX reported that the victory was the largest comeback of James’ career.
Jaylen Brown added 21 points for the 76ers. The 114-106 result followed Philadelphia’s win over the Knicks, while Cleveland began its season with a loss.