Pistons seize early lead in eastern conference semifinals

In a high-stakes matchup, the Detroit Pistons took a 1-0 lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals by defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-101 at home. Cade Cunningham's 23 points led the charge for Detroit, while Tobias Harris added 20 points and eight rebounds.

Cavaliers rally late but fall short

Despite a valiant effort from James Harden, who scored 13 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter, the Cavaliers couldn't overcome a 32-14 first quarter deficit. Donovan Mitchell chipped in with 23 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Pistons' balanced attack.

Ausar Thompson and Duncan Robinson also reached double digits, with Thompson notching 11 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Robinson added 19 points. Jalen Duren rounded out the Pistons' starting lineup with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

The Cavaliers, who had just 48 hours to recover after eliminating the Toronto Raptors in their first-round series, committed 19 turnovers that Detroit converted into 21 points. The Pistons, meanwhile, limited Cleveland to 43.5% shooting from the field.

Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is set for Thursday in Detroit.