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2025 NBA Playoffs

Cavaliers Beat Heat In Game 1 After Fourth Quarter Run

Donovan Mitchell running back on defense after making a shot.
David Richard -- IMAGN IMAGES

The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Miami Heat 121-100 on Sunday in Game 1 of their first round Eastern Conference Playoff series in a matchup the the Cavaliers were heavily favored in. Cleveland started off strong and jumped out to an early 9-2 lead, but Miami did what they do best and responded well.

After ending the first quarter down 31-24, the Heat fought back and managed to only be outscored by one point through the next two quarters.

But just a few minutes into the fourth quarter, Ty Jerome led the Cavs on a huge scoring run to seal the victory. Jerome finished with 28 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter alongside Donovan Mitchell‘s 30 points and Darius Garland‘s 27.

RELATED: Thunder Win Game 1 With Historic Blowout Over Grizzlies

Despite the week-long absence, the Cavs elite offense was as scorching as ever, but the Heat showed signs of life the entire matchup.

Bam Adebayo finished with 24 points and nine rebounds for the heat alongside Tyler Herro‘s 21 points.

As the first 10-seed in league history to advance to the Playoffs, the Heat will look to prove themselves in Game 2 on Wednesday.

James Parker is an NBA writer for Ball Exclusives follow him on X @TheJames_Parker

About the Author Published Apr 20, 2025

JAMES PARKER

James Parker is a sports reporter and writer for Ball Exclusives. With a bachelor's degree earned at the age of 19, he’s spent years working as a sports journalist, including an award-winning stint at The Appalachian. He has never used AI for his work in any way, shape or form.

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