In a closely contested game at the American Airlines Center, the Cleveland Cavaliers emerged victorious with a final score of 113-110 over the Dallas Mavericks. Both teams now hold identical season records of 18-13.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 23: Isaac Okoro #35 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center on December 23, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

The Cavaliers, playing as guests, showcased their resilience by overcoming a significant deficit. The Mavericks had established an imposing lead of 20 points and dominated the time leading with over forty-two minutes on top. However, Cleveland's tenacity was evident as they clawed back into contention.

A pivotal moment for the Cavs came when they went on an unanswered scoring run that saw them notch up 15 points to close in on Dallas' lead. The team's offensive efforts were spearheaded by their accuracy from beyond the arc, converting 17 out of 43 three-point attempts which translated to an impressive forty percent success rate from long range.

Cleveland's bench played a crucial role in this victory, contributing a substantial 47 points to their total tally. Their collective performance was instrumental in maintaining momentum throughout the game. Moreover, Cleveland excelled in rebounding with an outstanding total of 67 rebounds; among these were crucial offensive boards that led to second-chance opportunities resulting in fifteen additional points.

Defensively, both teams were evenly matched with each recording seven steals and displaying similar defensive ratings around one hundred seven per possession. However, it was Cleveland's ability to capitalize on turnovers that made a notable difference; they scored twelve points off turnovers compared to fifteen by Dallas.

The Cavaliers also demonstrated efficiency when it came to sharing the ball as evidenced by their thirty-three assists leading to scores – showcasing effective teamwork and communication on court. Their assist-to-turnover ratio stood at just over two which is indicative of disciplined ball-handling against an aggressive Dallas defense that managed twelve steals during play.

Looking ahead for fans of The Cleveland Cavaliers: The team will next face off against Milwaukee Bucks at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse located in Cleveland on December 29th at 6:30 PM local time (Eastern). Fans can catch this upcoming game live through various broadcast networks including NBA TV channel two hundred sixteen nationally or BSOH channel six hundred sixty for home viewers and BSWI channel six hundred sixty-nine for those following away coverage.

Cleveland Cavaliers - NBA - Recap

Cavaliers Edge Out Mavericks in a Nail-Biter at American Airlines Center: Was This the Turning Point?