In Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference First Round, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a commanding 121–100 victory over the Miami Heat at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Sunday, April 20. The Cavs’ performance was highlighted by standout contributions from their star players and a remarkable playoff debut from Ty Jerome.
Key Performances
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Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 30 points, marking his seventh consecutive 30-point performance in a series opener, tying an NBA record held by Michael Jordan.
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Ty Jerome made a significant impact off the bench, scoring 28 points—including 16 in the fourth quarter—and adding three assists. His scoring surge in the final period helped the Cavs outscore the Heat 34–21, sealing the win.
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Darius Garland contributed 27 points, showcasing his growth from the previous year’s playoffs and providing efficient offensive leadership.
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Jarrett Allen added 12 points, 11 rebounds, and three steals, anchoring the team’s defense and contributing to the rebounding efforts.
Team Performance
The Cavaliers’ offense was efficient, shooting 48.6% from the field and 36.6% from beyond the arc. Their defense limited the Heat to 43.8% shooting and forced 14 turnovers. Cleveland’s bench outperformed Miami’s reserves, with the Cavs’ second unit scoring 41 points compared to the Heat’s 22.
Looking Ahead
The Cavaliers’ Game 1 victory sets a strong foundation for the series. With contributions from both their star players and bench, Cleveland aims to continue their momentum in the upcoming games.