Cavaliers Top Warriors 118-111 Behind Mitchell and Strus

Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus lead Cleveland to victory over Golden State.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:39pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the frenetic action of an NBA basketball game, with players' bodies and movements blending into vibrant brushstrokes and splashes of paint.An electric, high-scoring battle between two of the NBA's top teams showcases the raw passion and athleticism of professional basketball.Cleveland Today

Donovan Mitchell scored 25 points and Max Strus hit a key 3-pointer late as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Golden State Warriors 118-111 on Thursday night. James Harden added 19 points and 5 assists for the Cavaliers, who won for the 7th time in their last 9 games. Gui Santos and Brandin Podziemski each scored 25 points for the Warriors, who were without injured star Stephen Curry.

Why it matters

This was an important inter-conference matchup between two playoff contenders. The Cavaliers are looking to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference, while the Warriors are trying to stay in the hunt in the West despite Curry's extended absence.

The details

Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 25 points and 6 rebounds, while Strus hit a crucial 3-pointer with 54 seconds left to help seal the win. Harden chipped in 19 points and 5 assists. For the Warriors, Santos and Podziemski each scored 25 points, but they were without Curry, who has missed the last 27 games due to a knee injury. Curry did scrimmage 5-on-5 for the third straight day and could return as soon as Sunday's game against the Rockets.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 3, 2026.
  • Curry has missed the last 27 games due to his knee injury, which occurred on January 30.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who scored 25 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in the win.

Max Strus

A key reserve for the Cavaliers who hit a crucial 3-pointer late to help seal the victory.

James Harden

A veteran guard for the Cavaliers who contributed 19 points and 5 assists.

Gui Santos

A young forward for the Golden State Warriors who scored 25 points in the loss.

Brandin Podziemski

A rookie guard for the Warriors who also scored 25 points.

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What they’re saying

“Curry and Vice President of Player Health and Performance Rick Celebrini might decide as soon as Friday based on how Curry feels a day later whether he can return to face the Rockets.”

— Steve Kerr, Warriors Head Coach

What’s next

The Cavaliers will host the Indiana Pacers on Sunday, while the Warriors will host the Houston Rockets, potentially with Stephen Curry returning to the lineup.

The takeaway

This was an important win for the Cavaliers as they continue to jockey for playoff position in the Eastern Conference. The Warriors, despite Curry's extended absence, remain in the hunt in the West and could get a big boost if their star point guard is able to return on Sunday.