NBA roundup: Cleveland Cavaliers stun Detroit Pistons as San Antonio Spurs dominate

Despite being without five-time All-Star Donovan Mitchell, the Cleveland Cavaliers proved their depth by toppling Detroit 113-109. Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs flirted with history in Philadelphia, leading by as many as 49 points in a 131-91 rout that showcased the most balanced offense in the Western Conference.

Cavs Clamp Down on Cunningham

Cleveland’s defensive scheme centered on making life miserable for Cade Cunningham, and it worked to perfection. The Pistons star was held to just 10 points on 4-of-16 shooting.

• Standout Performer: Rookie Jaylon Tyson led the Cavs with a career-high 22 points.
• The “Harden” Effect: Veteran James Harden provided 18 points and steady playmaking (7 assists) to navigate the Cavs through the clutch.
• The Standings: Detroit (45-15) remains 4.5 games clear of Boston for the #1 seed, while Cleveland (39-24) solidifies their hold on the #4 spot.

Spurs Surge: “The Best Team in the World?”

Victor Wembanyama’s post-game confidence followed a historic team effort. The Spurs had eight players in double figures, led by Devin Vassell and Dylan Harper (22 points each).

• The Damage: San Antonio outscored Philadelphia 35-11 in the third quarter, effectively ending the game before the final frame began.
• Philly Blues: Tyrese Maxey was the lone bright spot for the Sixers with 21 points, as the home crowd booed the team off the court.

Tuesday’s Final Scores & Top Performers

Conference Snapshots (March 4, 2026)

Eastern Conference:

1. Detroit Pistons (45-15)
2. Boston Celtics (41-20)
3. New York Knicks (40-22) — First time reaching 40 wins before mid-March since 1990s.

Western Conference:

1. OKC Thunder (48-15) — Currently the best record in the NBA.
2. San Antonio Spurs (44-17)
3. Houston Rockets (38-22)