The Spurs headed into Cleveland to face the number one defense in the NBA, and while they initially struggled to break through the wall, getting down by as much as 21, they finally found a rhythm in the second half and got all the back within four in the fourth quarter before falling 109-117.
A big part of their near-rally was 2021’s Mr. Ohio Basketball himself: Malaki Branham. He has been on an extended offensive breakout lately, permanently earning himself a spot in the rotation. He didn’t let off in front of his friends and family, posting 18 points on 8-11 shooting (2-3 from three), 2 assists and 2 steals.