Pistons overcome technical difficulties to defeat Cavaliers in OT

The game between the Detroit Pistons and the Cleveland Cavaliers experienced technical difficulties during the second half at the Little Caesars Arena on Friday, Feb. 27.

The Pistons held a 65-64 lead against the Cavaliers with 7:24 in the third quarter when the horn at the scorers' table had a malfunction.

Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell was interviewed by ESPN during the third period when the horn started and would not stop.

The interview continued for several moments before Mitchell asked, “Do you guys hear the horn?”

The delay went on for at least 12 minutes before the arena staff managed to restart the scoreboard to stop the ongoing sound.

The staff then had to get the scoreboard back up and running before the game could continue. The area used a physical air horn to finish out the game.

Pistons defeat Cavaliers

The game went into overtime, where Detroit outscored Cleveland 8-5 to secure the 122-119 victory. Center Jalen Duren produced a double-double with 33 points and 16 rebounds against the Cavs.

"All the things are coming together for him,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said about Duren. “The game’s slowed down for him. His understanding of spacing and when to attack, all of those things have slowed down and are giving him opportunities."

Ausar Thomson on the #Pistons mental toughness through adverse situations as a team pic.twitter.com/d4psr4GCI6

— Eric Vincent (@IAmEricVincent) February 28, 2026

Pistons vs. Cavaliers highlights

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pistons beat Cavaliers in OT in game interrupted by horn malfunction