Cleveland Cavaliers Defeat New Orleans Pelicans 111-106

Cavaliers rally in the fourth quarter to secure victory on the road

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:49am

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The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 111-106 in a close NBA matchup on March 22, 2026. The Cavaliers overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to pull out the win, led by strong performances from their star players.

Why it matters

This game was an important Eastern Conference matchup between two teams vying for playoff positioning. The Cavaliers' comeback victory on the road demonstrates their resilience and ability to win close games, which could be crucial as they make a push for the postseason.

The details

The Pelicans led by as many as 8 points in the fourth quarter, but the Cavaliers stormed back with a 13-2 run to take the lead late in the game. All-Star guard Darius Garland scored 28 points and dished out 9 assists to lead the Cavaliers, while Pelicans forward Zion Williamson had 32 points and 11 rebounds in a losing effort.

  • The game was played on March 22, 2026.
  • The Cavaliers overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to win the game.

The players

Darius Garland

All-Star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who led his team to victory with 28 points and 9 assists.

Zion Williamson

Star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who had 32 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“Our guys showed a lot of heart and determination to come back and win this tough road game against a very talented Pelicans team.”

— J.B. Bickerstaff, Head Coach, Cleveland Cavaliers

“We had them on the ropes, but just couldn't finish it off. Credit to the Cavaliers for making the plays down the stretch.”

— Willie Green, Head Coach, New Orleans Pelicans

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to build on this road win as they continue their push for a top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Pelicans will try to regroup and get back on track as they fight for position in the crowded Western Conference.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Cavaliers' ability to win close, hard-fought contests on the road, which will serve them well as they aim to secure a high playoff seed in the Eastern Conference. The Pelicans, despite the loss, demonstrated their own talent and competitiveness, suggesting they will remain in the postseason hunt in the West.