CLEVELAND // Back-to-back MVP winner LeBron James shot 35 points to fire the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 101-93 comeback victory over the Boston Celtics in their Eastern Conference semi-final series opener yesterday. James, who confirmed earlier in the day that he had won the NBA's top honour, did not allow a sprained right elbow to slow him as he helped the conference's top seed overcome an 11-point third quarter deficit.
The Cleveland forward wrapped up the win with a three-pointer 22 seconds from time. Game Two of the best-of-seven series is on Monday in Cleveland. Guard Mo Williams added 20 points for the Cavaliers, while Rajon Rondo led the Celtics with 27 points and 12 assists. * Reuters
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