Donovan Mitchell scores 39 in second half, sparks 24-0 run, earns Cavaliers win to even series 2-2

Donovan Mitchell scored 39 points in the second half, tying the NBA record for points in a half of a playoff game, to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a victory over the Detroit Pistons on May 12, 2026. Mitchell was especially dominant in the third quarter, scoring 21 points on 8-of-9 shooting as part of a decisive 24-0 run that lasted 6:03 and effectively decided the game. James Harden added 11 assists for the Cavaliers, who evened their playoff series with Detroit at 2-2.