Hawks Defeat NBA-Leading Cavaliers to Clinch NBA Cup Quarterfinal Spot

Atlanta secures East Group C with a dominant 117-101 win, handing Cleveland its second loss in three days and ending their NBA Cup hopes.

The Atlanta Hawks beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-101 on Friday, marking their second victory over the NBA's best team in three days.
De’Andre Hunter led the Hawks with 23 points off the bench, while Trae Young contributed 21 points and 11 assists, continuing his league-leading playmaking form.
Atlanta’s depth proved critical, with six players scoring in double figures and the bench outscoring Cleveland’s reserves 50-28.
Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell struggled offensively, shooting 5-for-23, as the Hawks’ defense held the Cavaliers to a season-low 101 points.
The victory, combined with a Chicago Bulls loss, secured Atlanta the top spot in East Group C and a place in the NBA Cup quarterfinals.