While LeBron James led Cleveland with 31 points, it was J.R. Smith who ignited the Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. He made eight 3-pointers and scored 28 points in a 97-89 victory over the top-seeded Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night.
Intent on bringing Cleveland its first NBA title, James sealed the victory with a soaring dunk in the final minute.
For the Hawks, it was the second straight series in which they lost the opening game at home. Cleveland will look to take command of the series in Game 2 on Friday night.
Jeff Teague led Atlanta with 27 points.