After a thrilling victory over the Pistons, Atkinson praised the Cavaliers' fighting spirit and improved performance.

With contributions from James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, and Max Strus, the Cleveland Cavaliers narrowly defeated the Detroit Pistons 117-113 on the road in the fifth round of the 2025/26 NBA playoff semifinals, bringing the series score to 3-2.

According to the data, James Harden scored 30 points and 6 assists in this key game, Donovan Mitchell scored 21 points and 3 assists, while Max Strus contributed 20 points and 1 assist for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson said, "We played a crucial game, and we were down by 8 or 9 points at one point. I think that run really shows how much we've improved, how much more mentally and resilient we've become. These players never gave up, and Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and James Harden showed great style and leadership."

"Hopefully this performance will inspire us, and we hope we can maintain this form, especially considering it was a victory against a strong team away from home."

When asked about the clutch comeback, Atkinson said, "Evan Mobley hit the crucial three-pointer, made both free throws, and that dunk. Max Strus was also great; he had a lot of clutch plays."

"We're moving the ball away from James Harden a little more now, getting him in the frontcourt more often, so he doesn't have to bring the ball from the backcourt under Osar Thompson's defense every time. He brings maturity, composure, and calmness to us, which is exactly what we need. He really knows how to read the game."

Atkinson also said, "This match wasn't easy for Donovan Mitchell, but that's what shows his resilience. He won't back down because he knows he has great ability."

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