Cavs check James in 102-90 win over Heat

The Cleveland Cavaliers averted a season sweep by Miami and exacted a dose of revenge against LeBron James by beating the Heat 102-90 on Tuesday. Cleveland took a whopping 23-point lead, then lost it and had to storm back late in the game with a 12-0 run for the victory and a dose of revenge against former teammate James. It was the second trip back to Cleveland for James since the all-star decided to become a free agent in the offseason and make the switch to Miami. The Heat won both games in Miami against the Cavs this season. But James took the loss in his stride. “Anytime we play anybody, we know we’re going to get the best out of them,” James said. “They came out and played extremely well. It was a good win for them.” JJ Hickson had 21 points and Anthony Parker netted 20 for Cleveland, who were embarrassed by Miami 118-90 on December 2 when James scored 30 points. That night Cleveland fans heckled and booed James throughout the contest. “The first time we played them here, we were embarrassed and they took a little from us,” Parker said. “This is the night that we wanted to get that back, for us, but more for the fans. That was great getting it back for them.” James still had a triple double Tuesday, finishing with 27 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds but couldn’t get the win. Dwyane Wade had 24 points and six assists for the Heat, who had a five-game win streak halted. Miami’s Mike Bibby made a season-high seven three-pointers. Cleveland fans have not forgotten James’ snub but they weren’t as outwardly angry towards James as they were in December. James was booed throughout but there were no blatant incidents. Cavaliers management also stepped up security for Tuesday’s game. James said things weren’t as hostile as his previous visit. “I expect the worst,” he said. “But worse than last time, December 2? No.” Miami fought back from 23 down, and tied it 83-83 on Bibby’s seventh three-pointer with 7:03 left. The Heat then went scoreless for the next four minutes.