Donovan Mitchell led with 31 points, while Evan Mobley contributed a double-double with 28 points and 10 rebounds, propelling the Cavaliers to a dominant 117-99 victory over the San Antonio Spurs during Saturday’s NBA action.
Jarrett Allen complemented this effort with 26 points and 16 rebounds, as Mitchell rounded out his performance with eight rebounds and seven assists, aiding Cleveland in extending their winning streak to five games and securing their 13th win in 14 outings.
During his remarkable rookie season, San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama has garnered significant attention, but the Cleveland Cavaliers’ frontcourt duo also showcased their prowess.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Mitchell highlighted the competitive nature of facing a rising star like Wembanyama, emphasizing the motivation it brought, especially for Mobley, to make a statement on the court.
“It’s always a competition when you hear about a guy that we all feel can be, probably will be, one of the faces of the league or the face of the league,” Mitchell said. “For Ev and J, but especially Ev being around the same age and kind of coming up together. You want to send a message for sure.”
Wembanyama recorded 19 points and 14 rebounds for the Spurs, with Devin Vassell leading the team in scoring with 22 points and Keldon Johnson adding 17. Despite these efforts, San Antonio’s struggles continued, losing their fourth consecutive game and dropping 10 of their last 13, which keeps them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 10-40 record.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The game, however, wasn’t without its contentious moments. Late in the fourth quarter, Mitchell and Zach Collins were both ejected following a physical altercation initiated by Collins’ elbow to Mitchell during a moving screen, which led to Mitchell’s retaliatory push.
Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff defended Mitchell’s response, emphasizing the importance of standing up for oneself, while Mitchell downplayed any history with Collins but stood firm on his reaction to what he perceived as a dirty play.
“The kid was upset at a play that happened before, and he retaliated,” Bickerstaff said. “… Donovan did what Donovan does, he stood up for himself. I understand the rule, but if a guy takes a cheap shot on you, again you should be able to protect yourself.”
The Spurs, fatigued from a dense schedule, never truly challenged the Cavaliers after briefly leading early in the game. Cleveland capitalized on their size and physicality, with Mobley and Allen setting the tone early against Wembanyama and the Spurs.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers, Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Cleveland excelled in the paint, outscoring San Antonio significantly, and Wembanyama’s individual efforts, including a pair of three-pointers, highlighted his versatility despite the Spurs’ overall struggles.
Following a disappointing 2-5 homestand, the Spurs look ahead to a challenging nine-game road trip starting in Miami. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers are set to host the Sacramento Kings, aiming to continue their impressive run.
