NBA News Wire

James meets Heat; Cavs prevail

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LeBron James played first game against his former team and scored seven points in 20 minutes as the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat 122-119 in overtime on Saturday in a exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Forward Kevin Love, who came to the Cavaliers from the Minnesota Timberwolves in an August trade after James returned to Cleveland, scored 25 points to pace the Cavs (2-0).

James played mostly in the first half. He was 1 of 6 from the field and missed his first three free throws.

Forward Chris Bosh paced Miami (0-3) with 19 points in HSBC Arena, where gymnastics will be contested during the 2016 Summer Olympics.

James had little contact with his former teammates before or during the game other than to shake hands at tipoff.

The loudest applause from the fans went to Brazilian center Anderson Varejao of the Cavs.

“I’ve been waiting my entire life for this,” the 32-year-old Varejao said. “I hope you enjoy it.”

Cavs point guard Kyrie Irving sat out with a sprained right ankle.

The two teams meet for the first time during the regular season on Dec. 25.