Pistons Outlast Cavaliers in Overtime Thriller, 122-119

Detroit Pistons defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 122-119 in a hard-fought overtime game on February 27, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena. The game was notably delayed for 18 minutes in the third quarter due to a malfunctioning scoreboard and a persistent horn.

Game Recap

Jalen Duren led the Pistons with a dominant performance, scoring 33 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. Cade Cunningham contributed 25 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists before fouling out. The Pistons, currently leading the Eastern Conference, overcame a nine-point deficit in the final minutes of regulation and a late foul on Cunningham to force overtime.

The Cavaliers, playing without James Harden (thumb injury) and Donovan Mitchell (groin injury), were led by Jarrett Allen with 25 points and nine rebounds. Evan Mobley added 23 points and 12 rebounds, while Sam Merrill chipped in with 20 points.

Key Moments

• Third Quarter Delay: A power surge caused the overhead scoreboard to malfunction, resulting in a blaring horn that disrupted play for 18 minutes. The scoreboard was eventually shut down, and a manual airhorn was used to signal timeouts and restarts.
• Late-Game Drama: The Cavaliers led by nine points with 2:44 remaining in regulation. Cunningham fouled out with 1:56 left, but the Pistons rallied to tie the game.
• Final Seconds of Regulation: With the Cavaliers up 114-111 and 4.7 seconds remaining, Jaylon Tyson attempted to intentionally foul Daniss Jenkins, but Jenkins was able to draw three free throws and convert them, tying the game.
• Overtime: Evan Mobley’s three-point attempt at the buzzer in overtime fell short, securing the victory for Detroit.

Team Statistics

Looking Ahead

The Cavaliers will travel to Brooklyn to face the Nets on Sunday. The Pistons will be on the road against the Orlando Magic on Sunday.

Sources

• ESPN: Pistons 122-119 Cavaliers (Feb 27, 2026) Game Recap
• ESPN: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Detroit Pistons: Game Highlights