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The Toronto Raptors forced a decisive Game 7 in their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers after securing a 112–110 overtime victory, sealed by a dramatic late three-pointer from RJ Barrett that bounced favorably off the rim with 1.2 seconds remaining.
Toronto’s win hinged on a moment of fortune that ultimately defined the game. Barrett’s go-ahead three-pointer in overtime struck the rim, bounced high, and then dropped through the net, giving the Raptors a narrow lead they held onto in the final seconds.
The shot echoed a memorable moment in franchise history, drawing comparisons to Kawhi Leonard’s decisive bounce in 2019, which helped carry Toronto toward its championship run.
Despite missing key players, the Raptors managed to pull through with a collective effort. Scottie Barnes led the team with 25 points and orchestrated the offense with 14 assists, while also contributing seven rebounds.
Ja’Kobe Walter added 24 points, alongside defensive contributions, including steals. Toronto maintained offensive rhythm throughout, particularly in the first half, where its three-point shooting created separation.
The team entered the game short-handed, with Brandon Ingram sidelined due to a right heel injury and Immanuel Quickley unavailable for the entire series with a hamstring strain.
Cleveland struggled early but mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, finally overcoming a persistent deficit. Donovan Mitchell, who had a quiet first half, stepped up late and finished with 24 points, helping push the game into overtime.
Evan Mobley led all scorers with 26 points and secured 14 rebounds, including the game-tying basket at the end of regulation. James Harden contributed 16 points but struggled with shooting efficiency.
In overtime, Mitchell briefly gave Cleveland the lead with under a minute remaining, and Harden’s jumper earlier had also put the Cavaliers ahead. However, Toronto responded quickly, setting up Barrett’s decisive shot.
The closing sequence came under scrutiny after a key out-of-bounds decision. A deflection involving Mobley was ruled in Toronto’s favor, though Cleveland could not challenge the call, having already used its review opportunities earlier in the game.
With the result, the series remains perfectly balanced, as the home team has won every game so far. Cleveland will now look to continue that trend in Game 7, scheduled for Sunday.
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